Abstract
Objectives
To detect age-related morphological changes occurring in the median and transverse palatal sutures that could affect the outcome of rapid maxillary expansion. Determined by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans.
Material and methods
CBCT scans were retrospectively analysed of 325 patients aged from 5.9 to 82 years (mean = 27.3 +/-17.9), comprising 144 males and 181 females who underwent CBCT scanning of the maxillary region. The median and transverse palatal sutures were assessed at four topographic points using a grading scale created for the purpose of this study to attempt to assess the shape and the amount of calcified tissue within the examined sutures.
Results
At each of the assessed topographic points, the median palatal suture evolved from a straight/polyline shape to a more tortuous outline with a concomitant increase in the amount of calcified tissue most significantly identified in the middle and posterior regions of the suture. Patients older than 20 years showed significant suture obliteration at all points evaluated. No agedependent increase in the transverse suture calcification could be established.
Conclusion
Patients younger than 15 years should be treated with more predictable effect by means of an RME if no factors other than median palatal suture morphology are considered. Patients between 15 and 20 years old can be described as borderline cases in which an individual assessment by CBCT scans may prove clinically relevant. Patients older than 20 years showed significant suture obliteration at all points evaluated and therefore could be considered as patients at high risk of RME failure.