Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
07:16
Author Spotlight: Development of a Novel Finite Element Analysis Model for Improved Orthognathic Surgical Techniques
Published on: October 20, 2023
1.7K
Dental and Skeletal Changes after Transpalatal Distraction
Ewa Zawiślak1, Hanna Gerber1, Rafał Nowak1
1Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Silesian Piasts Medical University, Borowska 213, Wrocław 50-556, Poland.
Biomed Research International
|February 25, 2020
Summary
Transpalatal distraction effectively treats transverse maxillary deficiency in adults. This orthodontic procedure significantly increases maxillary arch width, improving skeletal craniofacial abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Craniofacial Surgery
Background:
- Maxillary constriction, a common craniofacial abnormality, affects 30% of patients needing orthodontic and surgical treatment.
- Transverse maxillary deficiency presents a significant challenge in orthodontic and surgical interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze craniofacial skeletal changes in adults with maxillary constriction following transpalatal distraction.
- To evaluate the efficacy of transpalatal distraction in correcting transverse maxillary deficiency.
Main Methods:
- Study included 36 adult patients (17-42 years) with complete skeletal crossbite who underwent transpalatal distraction.
- Measurements were taken from diagnostic models and cephalometric PA radiograms before (T1) and after (T2) active distraction.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in arch width dimensions (L1-L6) were observed post-distraction, with the greatest increase in intercanine distance (L3, 9.5mm).
- Frontal cephalograms showed significant increases in width dimensions (W1-W3), particularly at the alveolar process level (W1, 4.9mm).
Conclusions:
- Transpalatal distraction is an effective treatment for transverse maxillary deficiency in adults post-growth.
- The maxillary expansion mechanism resembles a parallel segment shift with slight anterior opening, and rotation occurs around the frontonasal suture.
