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Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Published on: October 20, 2023
Surgically assisted maxillary expansion in adults: prospective study
R R de Freitas1, A J Gonçalves, N J Moniz
1Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo-Faculty of Medical Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil. rrdefreitas@terra.com.br
International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|June 11, 2008
Summary
This study assessed maxillary expansion stability in patients with transverse maxillary deficiency. Results showed a relapse rate of 23% in canines and 18% in molars after one year.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dental Research
- Skeletal Biology
Background:
- Transverse maxillary deficiency is a common condition impacting facial aesthetics and function.
- Orthopedic maxillary expansion is a standard treatment, but long-term stability remains a concern.
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques aim to improve outcomes and reduce complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the stability of transverse maxillary dimensions after orthopedic expansion.
- To quantify relapse rates in the canine and molar regions following surgical-assisted maxillary expansion.
- To assess the efficacy of expansion using minimum osteotomies of the zygomatic pillars and median palatine suture.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical study involving patients with transverse maxillary deficiency.
- Orthopedic maxillary expansion performed after minimally invasive osteotomies.
- Quantitative measurement of inter-canine and inter-molar distances at multiple time points.
- Follow-up assessment of dimensional stability one year post-expansion.
Main Results:
- Achieved desired maxillary expansion in all patients within 15 days postoperatively.
- Observed a one-year relapse rate of 23% in the superior canine area.
- Recorded an 18% relapse rate in the superior first molar area after one year.
Conclusions:
- Surgical-assisted maxillary expansion can achieve immediate transverse dimension changes.
- Long-term stability is moderate, with measurable relapse in both canine and molar regions.
- Further research may explore factors influencing relapse and long-term outcomes.

