3D Evaluation of Craniofacial Changes Associated with MARPE in Young Adults

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of mini-screw-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) on the craniofacial complex in non-growing patients. Thirty patients with skeletal transverse maxillary deficiency underwent MARPE therapy at UIC Department of Orthodontics. Cone-beam computed tomography images with collected pre-MARPE treatment, post-MARPE treatment, and at 1 year follow up. Using Dolphin imaging software, CBCTs were analyzed to determine changes in multiple craniofacial parameters, including skeletal changes, dental changes, periodontal changes, and nasal septum changes. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between the pre-treatment and post-treatment groups. Results indicate MARPE can be considered an alternative for the correction of a transverse skeletal deficiency in adults, but limitations should be considered.