Condylar positional changes in rapid maxillary expansion assessed with cone-beam computer tomography

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Craniofacial Development
• Dental Imaging

Background:

• Maxillary transverse deficiency is a common condition requiring orthodontic intervention.
• Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a widely used treatment for this condition.
• Understanding the effects of RME on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condylar position is crucial for long-term outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate spatial changes in condylar position following rapid maxillary expansion (RME).
• To compare condylar changes in patients treated with a tooth-borne expander (Hyrax) against a control group.
• To assess the clinical significance of any observed condylar spatial alterations.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-seven patients (11-17 years) with maxillary transverse deficiency were randomized into RME (Hyrax) and control groups.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were acquired at baseline and after 6 months.
• Landmarks on molars, premolars, cranial base, condyles, and glenoid fossae were analyzed using AVIZO software.

Main Results:

• Minor changes in condylar position (<1.9mm average) were observed in both RME and control groups.
• The greatest difference noted was between the left and right condyle head distances.
• No statistically significant differences in condylar changes were found between the RME and control groups (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) demonstrates mild effects on condylar spatial positioning.
• Observed condylar changes with RME are not statistically significant compared to controls.
• RME is a viable treatment option without significant limitations due to condylar positional changes.