Rapid Maxillary Expansion to Correct Palatal Fracture Malunion: A Case Report

Mid palatal fractures are usually present in conjunction with Le Fort I maxillary fractures. Literature on isolated mid palatal fractures as seen in this case is relatively rare. A novel approach for the management of this case was undertaken. A rapid maxillary expander was used to separate palatal segments which healed well. The patient's crossbite and open bite was corrected with elastic use. The protocol of management of malunion of isolated mid palatal fractures is simple with reduced costs, morbidity and higher rates of acceptance. We report a case of a 26-year-old male patient involved in a road traffic accident leading to an isolated mid palatal fracture which is a rare entity. Due to lack of specialized care, the fracture fragments united inadequately resulting in deranged occlusion, open bite and reduced masticatory efficiency.