A Programmable Expander for Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate.

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Alveolar bone grafting (ABG) is crucial for cleft lip and palate repair.
• Pre-graft expansion of cleft segments is often necessary but can be complex.
• Existing methods may require multiple adjustments and appliances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, reprogrammable nickel-titanium expander for pre-graft cleft segment expansion.
• To evaluate the efficiency and convenience of this new expander system.

Main Methods:

• A reprogrammable nickel-titanium expander was utilized.
• Electric current was used to set the desired expansion width for individual patients.
• The expander delivered a gradual, slow expansive force.
• The expander remained in place during the secondary alveolar bone graft procedure.

Main Results:

• The expander allowed for precise, patient-specific width adjustments via reprogramming.
• Gradual, slow spring force expanded and aligned cleft segments without manual adjustments.
• Eliminated the need for multiple appliances and reduced patient appointments.
• The expander did not interfere with the palatal flap during ABG.

Conclusions:

• Reprogrammable nickel-titanium expanders offer a streamlined approach to pre-ABG cleft segment expansion.
• This technology reduces treatment complexity, chair time, and patient burden.
• It presents a viable alternative, especially for patients with limited access to care.