A Cone-Beam CT-Based Technique to Augment the 3D Virtual Skull Model With a Detailed Dental Surface for Orthognathic Surgery Planning

Abstract

and Class III elastics were used to protract the maxilla and to hold the maxillary advancement during the consolidation phase. The correction of 3-9 mm crossbites occured within four weeks after sutural loosening. Overcorrection of the malocclusion was followed by a 2-3 month period of consolidation with support from Class III elastics. Treatment outcomes were monitored using cephalometric analysis as well as intraoral and extraoral photographs. Method of Data Analysis: Treatment outcomes were monitored using cephalometric analysis as well as intraoral and extraoral photographs. Results: In our retrospective analysis of 30 maxillary protraction cases, there was significant relapse which necessitated overcorrection. Four cases failed due to poor cooperation. However, 26 patients were able to avoid orthognathic surgery for correction of skeletal underbites that ranged from 3-9 mm. Microscrews were added to eliminate headgear and to enhance skeletal movement in older patients. Conclusion: While preliminary, these results suggest that maxillary protraction is possible in the adolescent cleft lip and palate patient which contradicts previous studies on maxillary protraction. The difference between our patients and earlier studies is the loosening of sutures prior to protraction. The mobilization of the maxilla appears to be the critical part of a technique which resembles a distraction osteogenesis of the maxilla. This technique can be a useful alternative to orthognathic surgery in cooperative patients.