RME: effects on the nasal septum. A CBCT evaluation

Authors

  • C Maspero Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano
  • G Galbiati Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano
  • E Del Rosso Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano
  • M Farronato Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano
  • L Giannini Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2019.20.02.08

Keywords:

CBCT, Nasal septum, Nasal septum deviation, RME procedures

Abstract

AIM: Three-dimensional images have been evaluated to study the changes that occur on the maxillary complex and the nasal septum, following rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in growing children. METHODS: The records of 39 consecutively treated patients (20 male, 19 female), aged between 6.2 and 12.3 years (mean 8.6 years, S.D. 1.5), presenting a septal deviation of more than 1 mm, were analysed. Each patient was scanned at two distinct periods. The first image (T0) was obtained before treatment and hence represented the patient's baseline condition prior to expansion. The second time point (T1) was set after removal of the expander. The skeletal modifications induced by RME have been evaluated via cephalometric tracings obtained at T0 and at T1. The time lapse between T0 and T1 was 12 months. CONCLUSION: Evidences of this study suggest that RME procedures can result in: a potentially positive effect on the nasal septum asymmetry during childhood; an increase of the nasal cavity volume due to a downward and forward movement; a lateral inclination of the nasal cavity reducing air resistance and improving breathing pattern; an increase of the length of the septum in its lower third improving its possible deviations and growth disturbances; favourable effects on the growth of the entire maxillary complex.