Evaluation of Midpalatal Suture Ossification Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A Digital Radiographic Study

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Dental Imaging Techniques
• Craniofacial Development

Background:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers advanced, noninvasive 3D imaging for oral diagnostics.
• Traditional 2D radiography limited assessment of the palate's curved mid-palatal suture and its ossification.
• CBCT enables detailed evaluation of mid-palatal suture morphology and ossification stages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and classify mid-palatal suture morphology using CBCT imaging.
• To analyze variations in suture ossification across different age groups.
• To correlate CBCT findings with the Angelieri classification of mid-palatal suture maturity.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of 200 CBCT scans (95 male, 105 female).
• Classification of mid-palatal sutures into five categories (A-E) based on ossification degree (Angelieri classification).
• Statistical analysis using the Chi-Square test (SPSS version 23.0).

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in mid-palatal suture maturity stages were observed across age groups.
• Stage B was most prevalent in Group 1 (50%).
• Stage C was most common in Group 2 (60%) and Group 3 (40%), while Stage E was more frequent in Group 4 (50%).

Conclusions:

• Significant variability exists in the timing, degree, and morphology of mid-palatal suture ossification.
• While suture closure generally increases with age, chronological age is not a definitive predictor of suture status.
• Findings underscore the diverse ossification patterns of maxillary sutures, crucial for orthodontic and surgical planning.