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Growth in width following pharyngeal flap surgery
The Angle Orthodontist
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Pharyngeal flap surgery in cleft patients showed no significant impact on jaw or dental arch width. An increase in maxillary width was observed, contrary to expectations for nasorespiratory obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial surgery
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric dentistry
Background:
- Pharyngeal flap surgery is a common procedure for velopharyngeal dysfunction.
- Potential effects on craniofacial growth, particularly transverse dimensions, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of pharyngeal flap surgery on the transverse dentofacial growth of cleft patients.
- To assess changes in jaw and dental arch width post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 17 cleft patients who underwent pharyngeal flap surgery.
- Measurement of jaw and dental arch widths before and after surgery.
Main Results:
- No significant alterations in jaw or dental arch width were observed.
- A significant increase in basal maxillary width was noted, contrasting with typical findings in nasorespiratory obstruction.
Conclusions:
- Pharyngeal flap surgery does not appear to cause dramatic transverse growth alterations in cleft patients.
- Further research, stratified by cleft type, is recommended to understand nasal cavity width changes.