Petrica Florin Sava, Ilie Cristian Drochioi, Otilia Boisteanu, Bogdan Dragomir, Stefan Gherasimescu, Daniela Sulea, Victor Vlad Costan
DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.2.17.17
ABSTRACT
Aim of the study Maxillary transverse deficiency (MTD) significantly impacts oral function, facial aesthetics, and respiratory health. Treatment modalities range from non-invasive skeletal expansion techniques to complex orthognathic surgery. This study aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of three distinct approaches—Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE), Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE), and segmented Le Fort I osteotomy (LFT)—in adult patients diagnosed with MTD. The null hypothesis was that no significant difference exists between these treatment strategies. Materials and methods A total of 30 adult patients diagnosed with MTD were allocated into three treatment groups (MSE, SRP, and LFT). Pre- and post-treatment evaluations included clinical examination, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and psychological assessment. Primary outcome measures were interpremolar distance, distance between palatal root apices of molars, and nasal airway volume. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results Statistically significant increases in interpremolar width, root apex distance, and nasal airway volume were observed in all groups post-treatment (p < 0.001). The LFT group showed the highest skeletal and airway improvements, followed closely by the SRP group. The MSE technique yielded more limited changes, primarily within the alveolar process. Patient-reported discomfort was lowest in the MSE group and highest in the LFT group. Conclusions All three techniques improved transverse maxillary dimensions, but their effectiveness varied with case severity. LFT remains the most effective for severe cases, while SRP and MSE are appropriate for moderate and mild forms, respectively. Individualized treatment planning, combined with long-term retention strategies, is critical for sustained outcomes.
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