title: Microwave processing of cleft palate orthopedic expansion devices.
abstract: This article describes a method for making a palatal expansion device for use in conjunction with orthopedic repositioning of the premaxilla in patients with bilateral cleft palate. The technique of constructing the devices involves the microwave processing of a permanent soft liner and a heat-cured acrylic resin in a single-stage curing cycle. The resultant expansion device has the advantages of a soft liner for retention in the nasal cavity and an oral cavity surface that is smooth and closely adapted to the tissues. A paper cover is used during the flasking process, which allows packing of materials without displacement into undesirable locations.
authors.affiliation: Maxillofacial Prosthetic Rehabilitation Eye and Ear Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pa.
authors.forename: R E
authors.initials: RE
authors.lastname: McKinstry
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Browning
mesh_terms: D000180:Acrylic Resins / Q000737:chemistry; D000202:Activator Appliances; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry; D002971:Cleft Lip / Q000628:therapy; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000628:therapy*; D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes / Q000737:chemistry; D006801:Humans; D008872:Microwaves; D016382:Orthodontic Appliance Design; D010155:Palatal Expansion Technique / Q000295:instrumentation*; D010158:Palatal Obturators; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D012826:Silicone Elastomers / Q000737:chemistry; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D000180:Acrylic Resins; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes; C020964:MDX 4-4210; D012826:Silicone Elastomers