Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term effect of active skeletonized
sutural distractor (ASSD) appliance on temporomandibular joint morphology of class
III malocclusion subjects.
Materials and Methods This was a prospective interventional study. Cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT)
images of 22 patients were taken before and after treatment by using Planmeca Promax
3D CBCT machine version 2.9.2 (Planmeca OY Helsinki, Finland). The condylar width,
height, length, roof of glenoid fossa thickness, and all joint spaces were measured.
The condylar position was determined based on Pullinger and Hollander formula. The
condylar shape was determined as per Kinzinger et al. The condylar volume was calculated
by using Mimics software (Materialize, Belgium).
Statistical Analysis Data analysis was performed by using SPSS software version 24. Wilcoxon paired signed-rank
test was used to compare the difference in temporomandibular joint morphology and
condylar volume between pre- and post-treatment measurements. Chi-square test was
used to compare the condylar position and shape.
Results The superior (p = 0.000 on the right side, p = 0.005 on the left side) and posterior joint spaces (p = 0.000 on both sides) were decreased after the treatment, respectively. The condyles
were rotated upward and backward, thereby increasing the anterior joint spaces (p = 0.000 on both sides) after the treatment. The condylar volume increases after treatment,
but no significant differences were observed (p = 0.903 on the right side, p = 0.062 on the left side).
Conclusion The significant changes were observed in joint spaces. The condyles were more anteriorly
placed before treatment. Condylar position and shape alter in response to ASSD treatment.
The condylar volume did not show any significant change.
Keywords
class III malocclusion - temporomandibular joint morphology - orthodontic treatment
- fixed appliance - cone-beam computed tomography
