Transverse Deficiency Research Articles

Risk of Maxillary Canine Impaction in Pediatric Patients with Maxillary Constriction: Retrospective Study on Panoramic Dental Images

The maxillary canine is the second most commonly impacted tooth after the maxillary third molar. Identifying risk factors for impaction is crucial for timely intervention; panoramic radiographs are particularly valuable for screening and identification purposes. This study aims to explore the association between transverse maxillary deficiency with bilateral crossbite, and the risk of maxillary canine impaction. A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted on records of pediatric patients (7–13 years old) undergoing orthodontic evaluations. Panoramic radiographs were analyzed to assess the risk of canine impaction using the sectorial method, distance from the occlusal plane, and the alpha angle. Results from 48 canines of patients with transverse maxillary deficiency and bilateral crossbite were compared to canines of sex- and age-matched patients without these malocclusions. Statistical analysis was performed by the Shapiro–Wilk test, Levene’s test, or a t-test. There were no significant differences in high-risk canine impaction between groups when considering sector classification or distance from the occlusal plane. However, the control group showed a significantly higher risk according to the alpha angle (≥25°). No overall significant difference in risk was observed, suggesting that transverse maxillary deficiency with bilateral crossbite may not increase the risk of maxillary canine impaction.

Mothers’ perspectives on the use and acceptability of 3d printed prosthesis by their children with congenital upper limb difference in India: a qualitative study

Purpose Children with congenital upper limb difference (CULD) in India have limited access to treatment with conventional prostheses. 3D printed prosthetic devices (3DPP) can function as transitional prostheses for growing children with congenital transverse deficiency. They are low-cost and the designs are easily customized. However, functional outcomes, access, and acceptability are still unexplored in many clinical settings. This qualitative study sought perspectives from Indian mothers of children with CULD using 3DPP for the first time. The objective was to enhance understanding of 3DPP acceptability and to explore how their children utilized these devices. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven mothers of children aged 3 to 11 years with varying levels of CULD who had been fitted with a 3DPP for at least 1 month prior. The interviews aimed to gather insights into the children’s daily experiences with the devices and the mothers’ perceptions of 3DPP. Thematic analysis was carried out using an inductive approach. Results Four major themes were identified through thematic analysis. They were: 1. Design and functionality of 3DPP, 2. Adaptation patterns, 3. Social attitudes and perceptions, and 4. Access to the Center for congenital hand differences: location and its services. Conclusion Our study explores the early-stage use and acceptance of 3DPP in India. Mothers reported several reasons for prosthesis abandonment including functional limitations, pain, and unmet expectations. The acceptability of 3DPP was moderate among close family, but social stigmatization was still a barrier to continued use. Addressing these issues and offering tailored solutions could be important to achieve successful 3DPP adaptation.

Effects of Hyrax Maxillary Expander on Nasal Cavity and Upper Airway in Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Whether Hyrax maxillary expander is an effective treatment for maxillary transverse deficiency as well as expansion of the upper airway is still controversial. The study's purpose was to evaluate 3D changes in upper airway dimensions of adolescent patients measured primarily by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) after rapid maxillary expansion (RME) with the Hyrax maxillary expander. Studies up to 1 April 2024 were searched in the following databases: PubMed/MEDICINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials and cohort studies that assessed the effect of RME in adolescent patients with upper airway stenosis using CBCT-based three-dimensional analysis. The risk of bias in the study outcomes was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool, the GRADE method, and a tool for evaluating non-randomized controlled study (non-RCT) literature from a previous systematic review, depending on the types of articles. The study was reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The study conducted a random effects meta-analysis of mean differences and 95% confidence intervals for changes in upper airway volumes, including the nasal cavity (NC), in the outcomes of 16 included studies, followed by subgroup analyses. A significant increase in nasopharynx volume was observed after rapid maxillary expansion (RME) by Hyrax maxillary expander (MD = 0.69, 95% CI (0.09~1.28), p = 0.02).

The Success of Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) in Adult Orthodontics: A Literature Review

This literature review examines the success and effectiveness of Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) in adult orthodontics. Traditional methods like Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE) have been commonly used for treating transverse maxillary deficiencies in adults, but they come with significant drawbacks, including higher biological and financial costs. MARPE, which utilizes mini screws to apply controlled forces for palatal expansion, offers a less invasive and more precise alternative. The review analyzes several studies and reports on MARPE's success in expanding skeletal and dental structures, improving respiratory function in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients, and minimizing complications like unwanted tooth movement. Despite some challenges, such as asymmetrical expansion, MARPE has demonstrated a high success rate in adult orthodontics and presents a promising treatment option. Further high-quality, long-term studies are recommended to optimize treatment protocols and evaluate potential risks.

Miniscrew-assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion Before Orthognathic Surgery for a Patient With Laterognathia

In this case report, a 19-year-old male patient with maxillary transverse deficiency, concave profile, and facial asymmetry is presented. In the case of transversal insufficiency, nonsurgical maxillary expansion was performed with the miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) appliance to reduce the number of surgeries and provide both dentoalveolar and skeletal expansion. The periodontal soundness and short-term stability of the maxillary expansion were confirmed both clinically and radiologically. Mandibular prognathism was later corrected with orthognathic surgery. MARPE is an effective approach to the treatment of maxillary transverse deficiencies in adult patients.

9342 Managing Osteoporosis In Patients With Phocomelia: Challenges And Strategies

Abstract Disclosure: M. Renzu: None. C. Hubers: None. V. Mehta: None. A.M. Qazi: None. A.M. Satei: None. D.K. Yerasuri: None. Introduction: Phocomelia, a rare congenital limb malformation, often results from disruptions in limb bud formation during embryonic stage, due to genetic mutations, teratogens, or environmental factors like thalidomide embryopathy. These disruptions pose unique challenges in bone health management, including an increased risk of osteoporosis.We present a case report of a 52-year-old patient with phocomelia who developed an early onset severe osteoporosis. This case stresses the need for specific measures and care to tackle bone health in individuals with congenital limb anomalies. Case Presentation: A 52-year-old white female with phocomelia, had absence of the left forearm and hand, as well as a transverse tibial deficiency with a prosthetic left lower leg since the age of 1. Osteoporosis was diagnosed after follow-up, with initial osteopenia noted at age 49. DEXA scan showed lumbar osteopenia, radial osteoporosis, and bilateral femoral neck osteopenia. FRAX score showed an 11.9% risk of osteoporotic fracture and 3.1% risk of a hip fracture.Risk factors to her osteoporosis included late menarche, early menopause due to hysterectomy, and a history of hormone replacement therapy without pregnancies. Also, chronic colitis and diarrhea caused malabsorption issues. Her left hip bone mineral density was disproportionately low due to chronic prosthesis use, necessitating close monitoring and treatment initiation with Denosumab, along with vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation.As of the latest follow-up, the patient is closely monitored, and improvement is noted in her condition. She has incorporated daily gym sessions into her routine, indicating proactive engagement in her well-being. Discussion: Managing osteoporosis in patients with phocomelia needs a personalized approach, considering the patient's unique anatomical challenges and the limitations of traditional osteoporosis management strategies. Bone tissue adapts its structure based on mechanical loading, with reduced loading in deformed limbs leading to increased resorption and elevated osteoporosis risk. Tailored treatment plans, including Denosumab, which is known as an effective pharmacological option for managing osteoporosis, complemented by dietary adjustments to enhance vitamin D and calcium intake. Physical therapy programs play a vital role in muscle strengthening and balance improvement, reducing fracture risk.Another challenge that patients with phocomelia face is barriers to accessing healthcare services, like limited specialized care providers, financial constraints, and transportation difficulties, leading to increased morbidity. Hence early screening and intervention are essential to prevent osteoporotic complications. Overall, a comprehensive approach to osteoporosis management in phocomelia patients is crucial for optimizing outcomes and enhancing quality of life. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Piezo1 Promotes Osteogenesis Through CaMKII Signalling in a Rat Maxillary Expansion Model.

Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a widely used technique to treat maxillary transverse deficiency. Piezo1 is a cation channel that is activated by mechanical force and regulates bone formation. This study aims to elucidate the role of Piezo1 in bone remodelling during the RME process. In this study, the periosteal-derived stem cells (PDSCs) were cultured and stretched by the Flexcell system. The effects of Piezo1 on osteogenesis were assessed via RNA sequencing, real-time quantitative PCR, and western blot analyses. Moreover, for invivo analyses, the rat RME model was established. The function of Piezo1 in mid-palatal suture bone remodelling was evaluated using micro-CT, haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and immunohistochemistry analyses. It was revealed that under tension force, the osteogenic factors (Runt-related transcription factor 2, Osterix, and Alkaline Phosphatase) and Ca2+/calmodulin -dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) were significantly enhanced in PDSCs over time. Furthermore, these were also upregulated in the RME model with the expansion of the mid-palatal suture. However, Piezo1 inhibition by Grammostola spatulata mechanotoxin 4 downregulated the levels of these factors in the RME model. This study indicated that Piezo1 is associated with the osteogenesis of PDSCs and bone remodelling in the RME process. CaMKII might also participate in this process.

Transverse dentoalveolar development in Chinese children and adolescents: A cross-sectional study using revised Andrews’ Element III analysis

This study investigated the prevalence of maxillary transverse deficiency (MTD) in Chinese children and adolescents using revised Andrews' Element III analysis and studied transverse developmental characteristics of the maxillomandibular complex. Plaster or digital casts of 794 participants aged 7-18 years were evaluated. MTD was diagnosed when the maxilla-mandible width difference, represented by the decompensated maxillary and mandibular first molars, exceeded 4 mm. The average prevalence of MTD among patients aged 7-18 years was 31.1%. Patients with MTD exhibited narrower maxillary and/or wider mandibular arches. Strikingly, 32.3% of participants with posterior crossbite because of local crowding or mandibular deviation were not diagnosed with MTD. Dental compensation, such as a greater buccolingual inclination of the first molars, was common in patients with MTD. Transverse growth of the maxillomandibular complex was completed by 17 years old, with the maxilla undergoing greater transverse growth than the mandible. The physiological buccolingual inclination of first molars was observed in patients without MTD. The 95% reference value of the palatal arch width was 31.9-42.3 mm. The prevalence of MTD is 31.1% among Chinese children and adolescents. However, it is often camouflaged by dental compensation and sagittal discrepancy. The etiology of MTD is uncoordinated width in the maxillomandibular complex, which is not solely attributed to a narrow maxilla but also to an excessively wide mandible. To enhance diagnostic accuracy, individualized measurements of the maxillomandibular complex and a revised dental decompensation formula, rather than posterior crossbite alone, are recommended for transverse diagnosis. A potential presence of MTD is indicated when the palatal arch width is<31.9 mm.

Cone-beam CT landmark detection for measuring basal bone width: a retrospective validation study

BackgroundAccurate assessment of basal bone width is essential for distinguishing individuals with normal occlusion from patients with maxillary transverse deficiency who may require maxillary expansion. Herein, we evaluated the effectiveness of a deep learning (DL) model in measuring landmarks of basal bone width and assessed the consistency of automated measurements compared to manual measurements.MethodsBased on the U-Net algorithm, a coarse-to-fine DL model was developed and trained using 80 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The model’s prediction capabilities were validated on 10 CBCT scans and tested on an additional 34. To evaluate the performance of the DL model, its measurements were compared with those taken manually by one junior orthodontist using the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC).ResultsIt took approximately 1.5 s for the DL model to perform the measurement task in only CBCT images. This framework showed a mean radial error of 1.22 ± 1.93 mm and achieved successful detection rates of 71.34%, 81.37%, 86.77%, and 91.18% in the 2.0-, 2.5-, 3.0-, and 4.0-mm ranges, respectively. The CCCs (95% confidence interval) of the maxillary basal bone width and mandibular basal bone width distance between the DL model and manual measurement for the 34 cases were 0.96 (0.94–0.97) and 0.98 (0.97–0.99), respectively.ConclusionThe novel DL framework developed in this study improved the diagnostic accuracy of the individual assessment of maxillary width. These results emphasize the potential applicability of this framework as a computer-aided diagnostic tool in orthodontic practice.

Effect of treatment of transverse maxillary deficiency using rapid palatal expansion on oral health-related quality of life in children: complementary results for a controlled clinical trial.

To evaluate the effect of rapid palatal expansion (RPE) using Haas-type expanders on children's oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) and compare said effect with that previously reported for the use of Hyrax-type expanders. Forty participants aged 8-10 years with transverse maxillary deficiency were treated using Haas appliances. OHRQOL was measured using the CPQ8 - 10 before RPE, during RPE (T1), at the end of RPE (T2), and 1 month after appliance removal (T3). Generalized mixed models were fitted to assess the effect of the Haas-type expander compared to previously collected data (a nontreated and a Hyrax-type expander-treated group). RPE with Haas-type appliances had a negative impact on overall OHRQOL at T1 and T2 (P = 0.001), and a positive impact at T3 (P = 0.001). The Haas-type expander had a significantly greater negative impact on OHRQOL than the Hyrax-type appliance during RPE. At T1, overall scores using the Haas-type expander were 1.08 times the scores using the Hyrax-type expander (i.e., 8% increase; 95% CI, 1.01-1.17; P = 0.033). Patients using the Haas appliance had 1.24 times the scores of those using Hyrax-type devices for the oral symptoms domain at T1 (i.e., 24% increase; 95% CI, 1.06-1.46; P = 0.009). Correction of the transverse maxillary deficiency by RPE using the Haas appliance in children 8-10 years improves OHRQOL. The Haas- and Hyrax-type devices temporarily worsen OHRQOL during treatment, however, the negative impact is less with the Hyrax-type expander than with the Haas-type expander, because it causes fewer negative oral symptoms. From a patient-centered perspective, the use of the Hyrax over the Haas appliance may be suggested as it causes less negative oral symptoms during use.

Treatment of maxillary transverse deficiency combined with crossbite and severe crowding using maxillary skeletal expander: a case report

Treatment of maxillary transverse deficiency combined with crossbite and severe crowding using maxillary skeletal expander: a case report

Three-dimensional assessment on digital cast of spontaneous upper first molar distorotation after Ni-ti leaf springs expander and rapid maxillary expander: A two-centre randomized controlled trial.

The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the spontaneous distorotation of upper first permanent molars and the transverse dentoalveolar changes on digital casts in growing patients following maxillary expansion treatment using either the Leaf Expander® or the rapid maxillary expander (RME), both anchored to the deciduous second molar. This study was a two-arm, parallel-assignment, RCT with a dual-centre design conducted at two teaching hospitals in Italy. Inclusion criteria included maxillary transverse deficiency, prepubertal development stage (cervical vertebra maturation stage [CVMS] 1-2) and early mixed dentition with fully erupted upper first permanent molars. Exclusion criteria were systemic diseases or syndromes, CVMS 3-6, agenesis of upper second premolars, unavailability of the second deciduous molar for anchorage and Class III malocclusion. Patients were randomly assigned to the Leaf Expander® or RME group using a computer-generated randomization list created by a central randomization centre. Randomization was conducted immediately before the start of treatment. The intervention involved treatment with either the Leaf Expander® or the RME. Both devices were anchored to the second deciduous molars. Following randomization, patients were further categorized based on the presence of no crossbite, unilateral crossbite or bilateral crossbite. The primary outcome measure was the distorotation of the upper first molar (U6). Secondary outcomes included measurements of interdental linear dimensions, specifically upper inter-canine width (53-63), upper inter-molar width (MV16-MV26) and upper inter-deciduous second molar width (55-65). The examiner analysing the digital casts was blinded to the treatment groups to prevent detection bias and ensure objective assessment. However, due to the nature of the intervention, blinding was not feasible for the patients and clinicians involved in administering the treatment. A total of 150 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups: 75 to the Leaf Expander® group and 75 to the RME group. Recruitment started in November 2021 and was completed in November 2022. At the time of analysis, the trial was complete with no ongoing follow-ups. ANOVA tests revealed no significant differences between the three subgroups (no-cross, unilateral-cross and bilateral-cross) within both the Leaf Expander® and RME groups at T0. The Leaf Expander® demonstrated significantly greater distorotation in the unilateral crossbite subgroup compared to the RME (p = .014). In terms of total molar distorotation, the Leaf Expander® appliance showed a significantly greater effect (12.66°) compared with conventional RME (7.83°). Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between the extent of expansion and the degree of molar rotation. Maxillary expansion resulted in significant spontaneous molar distorotation when the appliance was bonded to the second deciduous molars. The Leaf Expander® exhibited significantly greater molar distorotation compared with conventional RME. The degree of molar distorotation was correlated with the extent of expansion obtained on the second deciduous molar. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT05135962).

A skeletal Class III young adult with severe maxillary transverse deficiency treated with maxillary skeletal expander.

This case report describes correction of maxillary constriction using a maxillary skeletal expander (MSE) in a 15-year-old female with a skeletal Class III pattern and asymmetry. The maxillary expansion device with four mini-implants was used to correct the constricted maxilla, bilateral crossbite of the posterior teeth, and crowding of the dentition. Comparison of cone-beam computed tomography scans before and after treatment showed that the majority of maxillary expansion was orthopedic, with minimal alveolar bone bending and tooth tipping. Fixed appliances were used to correct the crowding and malocclusion. Stable and satisfactory maxillary expansion was obtained by using MSE non-urgically.

Evaluation of Treatment Protocols in Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion by Finite Element Analysis.

Background and Objectives: Transverse maxillary deficiency is an important maxillary anomaly that is very common in society and remains current in orthodontics. The maxillary expansion has been used in treatment for a long time. While maxillary expansion can be performed with rapid maxillary expansion in young adults, it is performed with surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) in individuals who have reached skeletal maturity. No consensus has been reached on the most successful surgical technique or the ideal appliance for treating transverse maxillary deficiency. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate various surgical techniques and orthodontic appliances for treating transverse maxillary deficiency using the finite element method (FEM) to identify the treatment protocol that minimizes stress on the maxillary bone and teeth. Materials and Methods: On the virtual models obtained from the cone beam computed tomography of a patient, two different incisions (the pterygomaxillary junction is separated and not separated) were made and combined using three different orthodontic appliances (tooth, bone, and hybrid assisted). Then, stresses over the maxillary bone and maxillary teeth were calculated by FEM. Results: Our results showed that when the pterygomaxillary plates were separated, fewer stresses were observed on the bone and teeth. Although hybrid-supported appliances created less stress on the teeth than tooth-supported appliances and no difference was found between bone-supported appliances, it was found that hybrid-supported appliances created less stress on the bone than the other appliances. Conclusions: The separation of the pterygomaxillary junction in the SARME operation and the use of a bone-supported or hybrid-supported appliance would place less stress on the bone and teeth.

Investigation of bone remodeling in gingival crevicular fluid in patients treated with rapid maxillary expansion during pubertal period

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate bone remodeling following 3-month and 6-month retention periods of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Materials and Methods: 23 pubertal participants (15 girls- 8 boys, 12-15 years) with maxillary transversal deficiency were enrolled in the study. Following banded-type RME appliance was introduced into the mouth, RME protocol was initiated by turning the Hyrax screw twice daily (morning/evening) with ¼ activation. GCF samples were taken from right maxillary first molars at four different time points (T0: before the appliance was deployed, T1: following active phase, T2: at the end of the 3-month retention period, T3: at the end of the 6-month retention period) using paper strips. Probing depth, gingival index, plaque index, and bleeding percentage at probing were recorded. BALP, OPG, RANKL, and TNF-α levels were measured in GCF samples using ELISA kits. Results: Our study revealed that GCF's BALP and OPG levels remained unchanged over time in tension and pressure regions, and there were no statistically significant differences among regions at each time point (p&gt;0.05). RANKL level was statistically significantly increased in the buccal region (the pressure region) at time T1 (p=0.042). The palatinal region's TNF-α level was statistically significantly higher than the buccal region at T0, T2, and T3 time points (p=0.005, p=0.042, and p=0.006, respectively). Our study showed no correlation between 3-month and 6-month retention periods and biomarkers indicating RME's bone metabolic activities. Conclusions: Further studies with different retention periods and larger sample sizes are suggested.

Periodontal evaluation after maxillary expansion with atooth-bone-borne expander in growing patients : Arandomized clinical trial.

This two-arm parallel randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate and compare periodontal changes due to rapid maxillary expansion (RME) using tooth-bone-borne and tooth-borne devices in growing patients via clinical examinations and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Forty-two eligible patients (aged 11-14years; transverse maxillary deficiency, posterior crossbite) were screened and divided into two groups based on the treatment received (randomization was performed using computer-generated numeric sequences): hybrid hyrax tooth-bone-borne group (TBB) and hyrax tooth-borne group (TB). The primary outcome was the change in cortical bone thickness (by CBCT). In addition, the clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession, and bleeding were assessed. Both examinations were performed before and 3months after the activation phase. Intergroup comparisons were performed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA; P < 0.05). Twenty-one patients (12girls and 9boys; mean initial age, 13.3years) were included in the TBB group and 21 (5girls and 16boys; mean initial age, 13.2years) were included in the TB group. The TB group exhibited adecrease in buccal bone thickness in the first premolars and first molars at all three evaluated levels. Specifically, tooth 14 at 3 mm from the enamel-cement junction showed asignificant width reduction (0.7 mm; p < 0.001), accompanied by anotable increase in palatal cortical thickness at 6 mm of enamel-cement junction (1.13 mm; p < 0.001). RME resulted in buccal bone thickness reduction at the first premolar with hyrax treatment. In the molar region, both devices resulted in cortical bone alterations that were less pronounced in the TBB group.

Mechanically induced M2 macrophages are involved in bone remodeling of the midpalatal suture during palatal expansion

BackgroundPalatal expansion is a common way of treating maxillary transverse deficiency. Under mechanical force, the midpalatal suture is expanded, causing local immune responses. This study aimed to determine whether macrophages participate in bone remodeling of the midpalatal suture during palatal expansion and the effects on bone remodeling.MethodsPalatal expansion model and macrophage depletion model were established. Micro-CT, histological staining, and immunohistochemical staining were used to investigate the changes in the number and phenotype of macrophages during palatal expansion as well as the effects on bone remodeling of the midpalatal suture. Additionally, the effect of mechanically induced M2 macrophages on palatal osteoblasts was also elucidated in vitro.ResultsThe number of macrophages increased significantly and polarized toward M2 phenotype with the increase of the expansion time, which was consistent with the trend of bone remodeling. After macrophage depletion, the function of osteoblasts and bone formation at the midpalatal suture were impaired during palatal expansion. In vitro, conditioned medium derived from M2 macrophages facilitated osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts and decreased the RANKL/OPG ratio.ConclusionsMacrophages through polarizing toward M2 phenotype participated in midpalatal suture bone remodeling during palatal expansion, which may provide a new idea for promoting bone remodeling from the perspective of regulating macrophage polarization.

Evaluation of palate morphology in patients treated with leaf expander and hyrax expander: A geometric morphometric analysis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in shape of the palatal vault after maxillary expansion with hyrax expander (HE) and leaf expander (LE), using 3D Geometric Morphometric Analysis. Overall, 250 patients (110 M, 140 F) with maxillary transverse deficiency were selected for this study. In this study, 127 subjects were treated with HE, 123 with LE. Digital dental models were obtained pre-treatment (T0) and after 12 months from the cementation of the device (T1) and processed by means of a digital scanner. Linear and morphometric analyses were conducted to determine the effects of each appliance on dental measurements and palatal shape, and a multiple linear regression was performed to analyse the influence of anchorage and appliance type on final shape. Morphometric analysis showed that there was a lowering of the palatal vault in the HE group, while in the LE group it remained unchanged: the difference in palatal shape at time T0 and T1 was statistically significant in both treatments (HE vs. LE). In the HE group, the change in shape also included the upper part of the palatal vault in the vertical dimension, while in the LE group the change in shape interested mainly palatal shelves and the lower portion of the palate. Both LE and HE produce clinically significant changes in the morphology of the palatal vault.

TEMPORARY REMOVAL: Implications of maxillary expansion for the craniofacial phenotype in pediatric and adolescent obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in growing children and adolescents is a multifaceted condition marked by recurrent episodes of breathing interruptions during sleep due to upper airway collapsibility. The pathophysiology of pediatric OSA includes neuromotor dysfunction, inflammation, and anatomical factors related to soft tissues and craniofacial morphology. The prevalence of OSA in children varies between 1-10%, and its impact can extend to behavioral, neurocognitive, cardiovascular, and metabolic issues. Adolescence poses unique diagnostic challenges due to significant physical and hormonal changes, necessitating age-appropriate criteria for OSA assessment.Maxillary transverse deficiency (MTD) is recognized as a critical craniofacial risk factor for pediatric OSA. Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) has garnered attention for its ability to open the midpalatal suture, expand the nasal and oropharyngeal airways, and reduce nasal resistance, thereby improving respiratory function. While RME is effective in many cases, microimplant-assisted RME is a promising alternative for severe cases or when conventional RME is insufficient. This technique offers enhanced skeletal expansion and airway improvement, though further research is needed to validate its functional benefits.Case reports highlight the successful application of RME and microimplant-assisted RME in treating pediatric OSA. These interventions resulted in significant improvements in airway dimensions, reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), and alleviation of symptoms such as snoring and daytime sleepiness.

Three-dimensional analysis of palatal morphology and PAS in patients with cleft lip and palate prior to orthodontic treatment

BackgroundSince many different conclusions of craniofacial anomalies and their relation to the posterior airway space coexist, this comparative clinical study investigated the palatal morphology concerning volumetric size, posterior airway space dimension and the adenoids of patients with and without a cleft before orthodontic treatment.MethodsThree-dimensional intraoral scans and cephalometric radiographs of n = 38 patients were used for data acquisition. The patients were divided into three groups: unilateral cleft lip and palate (n = 15, 4 female, 11 male; mean age 8.57 ± 1.79 years), bilateral cleft lip and palate (n = 8, 0 female, 8 male; mean age 8.46 ± 1.37 years) and non-cleft control (n = 15, 7 female, 8 male; mean age 9.03 ± 1.02 years). The evaluation included established procedures for measurements of the palatal morphology and posterior airway space. Statistics included Shapiro-Wilk-Test and simple ANOVA (Bonferroni) for the three-dimensional intraoral scans and cephalometric radiographs. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe palatal volume and cephalometric analysis showed differences between the three groups. The palatal volume, the superior posterior face height and the depth of the bony nasopharynx of patients with cleft lip and palate were significantly smaller than for non-cleft control patients. The superior posterior face height of bilateral cleft lip and palate patients was significantly smaller than in unilateral cleft lip and palate patients (BCLP: 35.50 ± 2.08 mm; UCLP: 36.04 ± 2.95 mm; p < 0.001). The percentage of the adenoids in relation to the entire nasopharynx and the angle NL/SN were significantly bigger in patients with cleft lip and palate than in the non-cleft control. In particular, the palatal volume was 32.43% smaller in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate and 48.69% smaller in patients with bilateral cleft lip and palate compared to the non-cleft control.ConclusionsSkeletal anomalies relate to the dimension of the posterior airway space. There were differences among the subjects with cleft lip and palate and these without a cleft. This study showed that the morphology of the palate and especially transverse deficiency of the maxilla resulting in smaller palatal volume relates to the posterior airway space. Even the adenoids seem to be affected, especially for cleft lip and palate patients.