Orthopedic palatal expansion in the treatment of bilateral congenital choanal atresia: an additional tool in the long term follow up of patients?
OBJECTIVE
Rapid Palatal Expansion (RPE) is an orthodontic procedure commonly used to widen the maxilla. Aim of this study is the description of the effects produced by RPE in two patients affected by Bilateral Congenital Choanal Atresia (BCCA) operated in infancy and who were scheduled for a secondary endoscopical surgical correction.


METHODS
The two cases presented were studied through Postero Anterior and Submental Vertex cephalometric x-rays, and TC-Scans pre and 12 months post expansion.


RESULTS
Both nasal and choanal widths were increased 12 months post expansion of an amount which was equivalent to 30% of the defective bony width. Endoscopically the expansion of the lumen was more evident given the associated soft tissue improvement. In both cases secondary surgery was avoided.


CONCLUSIONS
The cooperation between ENT surgeon and orthodontist may allow for an reduction in the burden of treatment of children affected by BCCA.
Felisati
Giovanni
G
Department of Otolaryngology, S. Paolo Hospital, and Department of Orthodontics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Meazzini
Maria Costanza
MC
Messina
Francesco
F
Tavecchia
Maria Giulia
MG
Farronato
Giampietro
G
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002508:Cephalometry; D002648:Child; D002754:Choanal Atresia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D009983:Orthopedic Equipment; D010155:Palatal Expansion Technique / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011859:Radiography