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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
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Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Published on: October 20, 2023
Changes in nasal volume after surgically assisted bone-borne rapid maxillary expansion
Wayel Deeb1, Lars Hansen, Thorsten Hotan
1Department of Orthodontics, Technical University, Dresden, Germany.
Summary
Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) significantly increased nasal volume, particularly in the anterior nasal floor. This suggests SARME may improve nasal breathing by widening the nasal cavity.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) is a common orthodontic procedure.
- The effects of SARME on nasal cavity dimensions require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify changes in nasal width, area, and volume after SARME using computer tomography (CT).
- To evaluate the impact of the Dresden distractor on nasal dimensions.
Main Methods:
- 16 patients underwent CT scans before and 6 months after SARME.
- CT data were fused to analyze bony structures.
- Nasal width, cross-sectional areas, and volume were calculated.
Main Results:
- Nasal volume increased by at least 5.1% in most patients.
- The greatest volume increase was observed on the anterior nasal floor.
- No significant correlation was found between nasal volume increase and transversal expansion.
Conclusions:
- SARME leads to significant increases in nasal volume.
- Improved nasal breathing is a likely outcome of SARME due to volumetric changes in the nasal cavity.
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