title: Presurgical Orthopedics Appliance: The Latham Technique.
abstract: The Latham appliance is an active presurgical orthopedic device used for cleft defects. Its long-term effects are debated. It was introduced to help surgeons achieve a more predictable surgical outcome; hence, it should be evaluated for its presurgical benefits. The device has been successful in expanding and aligning the maxillary segments; retruding protruded premaxillae; aligning bilateral alveolar ridges; placing less tension on surgical closures; and reducing fistulation rates. However, it has not been shown to have either a positive or negative long-term effect on maxillary development or occlusion. It is a valuable preoperative tool for surgeons treating cleft defects.
authors.affiliation: Oral & Craniofacial Center, PLLC, 2405 Cornerstone Boulevard, Edinburg, TX 78539, USA. Electronic address: ccruz@drcruzoms.com.
authors.forename: Carlos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Cruz
mesh_terms: D002971:Cleft Lip / Q000601:surgery*; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000601:surgery*; D004954:Esthetics; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009967:Orthodontic Appliances; D011300:Preoperative Care
keywords: Appliance; Latham technique; Orthopedics; Surgery