Three-dimensional finite element model to predict patterns of pterygomaxillary dysjunction during Le Fort I osteotomy.

The aim of this study was to determine whether non-linear three-dimensional finite element analysis (3D-FEA) can be applied to simulate pterygomaxillary dysjunction during Le Fort I osteotomy (LFI) not involving a curved osteotome (LFI-non-COSep), and to predict potential changes in the fracture pattern associated with extending the cutting line. Computed tomography (CT) image data (100 snapshots) after LFI were converted to 3D-CT images. 3D-FEA models were built using preoperative CT matrix data and used to simulate pterygomaxillary dysjunction. The pterygomaxillary dysjunction patterns predicted by the 3D-FEA models of pterygomaxillary dysjunction were classified into three categories and compared to the pterygomaxillary dysjunction patterns observed in the postoperative 3D-CT images. Extension of the cutting line was also simulated using the 3D-FEA models to predict the risk and position of pterygoid process fracture. The rate of agreement between the predicted pterygomaxillary dysjunction patterns and those observed in the postoperative 3D-CT images was 87.0% (κ coefficient 0.79). The predicted incidence of pterygoid process fracture was higher for cutting lines that extended to the pterygomaxillary junction than for conventional cutting lines (odds ratio 4.75; P<0.0001). 3D-FEA can be used to predict pterygomaxillary dysjunction patterns during LFI-non-COSep and provides useful information for selecting safer procedures during LFI-non-COSep.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of maxillary protraction with labiolingual arches and implants.

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of maxillary protraction using traditional labiolingual arches and implant-type protraction devices before orthopedic treatment of patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion. METHODS: A 3-dimensional finite element model of the maxillofacial bones with high biologic similarity and including the sutures was constructed. Through stress and displacement calculations, a biomechanical study was performed for the maxillofacial bones, mandible, and sutures. RESULTS: We quantified detailed changes in the sutures with 2 protraction methods to analyze their effects on the growth of the maxillofacial bones. CONCLUSIONS: (1) The labiolingual arch is suitable for skeletal Class III patients with crossbite and deep overbite. The frontomaxillary and zygomaticomaxillary sutures played major roles in the forward displacement and counterclockwise rotation of the maxilla. The temporozygomatic and pterygopalatine sutures did not change significantly. (2) The implant type of protraction device is suitable for skeletal Class III patients with crossbite and open bite. Both the frontomaxillary and zygomaticomaxillary sutures played decisive roles in the forward displacement and clockwise rotation of maxilla. The temporozygomatic and pterygopalatine sutures showed small changes. (3) The labiolingual arch caused less stimulatory growth on the maxilla, whereas the implant caused greater stimulatory growth on the maxilla. Protraction with the labiolingual arch is more suitable for early skeletal Class III patients at a younger age; protraction with an implant is applicable to skeletal Class III patients in the late mixed dentition or early permanent dentition.

Isolated frontosphenoidal synostosis: a rare cause of synostotic frontal plagiocephaly.

OBJECT: Unilateral fusion of the frontoparietal suture is the most common cause of synostotic frontal plagiocephaly. Localized fusion of the frontosphenoidal suture is rare but can lead to a similar, but subtly distinct, phenotype. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of the authors' craniofacial database was performed. Patients with isolated frontosphenoidal synostosis on CT imaging were included. Demographic data, as well as the clinical and radiographic findings, were recorded. RESULTS: Three patients were identified. All patients were female and none had an identifiable syndrome. Head circumference was normal in each patient. The mean age at presentation was 4.8 months (range 2.0-9.8 months); 2 fusions were on the right side. Frontal flattening and recession of the supraorbital rim on the fused side were consistent physical findings. No patient had appreciable facial angulation or orbital dystopia, and 2 patients had anterior displacement of the ipsilateral ear. All 3 patients were initially misdiagnosed with unilateral coronal synostosis, and CT imaging at a mean age of 5.4 months (range 2.1-10.8 months) was required to secure the correct diagnosis. Computed tomography findings included patency of the frontoparietal suture, minor to no anterior cranial base angulation, and vertical flattening of the orbit without sphenoid wing elevation on the fused side. One patient underwent CT scanning at 2.1 months of age, which demonstrated a narrow, but patent, frontosphenoidal suture. The patient's condition was assumed to be a deformational process, and she underwent 6 months of unsuccessful helmet therapy. A repeat CT scan obtained at 10.7 months of age demonstrated the synostosis. All 3 patients underwent fronto-orbital correction at mean age of 12.1 months (range 7.8-16.1 months). The mean duration of postoperative follow-up was 11.7 months (range 1.9-23.9 months). CONCLUSIONS: Isolated frontosphenoidal synostosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of atypical frontal plagiocephaly.

Finite element analysis of bone stress after SARPE.

PURPOSE: This study investigated stress distribution in maxillas that underwent surgically assisted palatal expansion (SARPE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five maxillary models were built: no osteotomy (M1), Le Fort I osteotomy with a step in the zygomaticomaxillary buttress (M2), Le Fort I osteotomy with a step in the zygomaticomaxillary buttress and the pterygomaxillary disjunction (M3), Le Fort I osteotomy without a step (M4), and Le Fort I osteotomy with pterygomaxillary disjunction and no step (M5). Displacement coherence and maximum stress (MS) analyses were used for all models. RESULTS: Areas of tension spread to the maxilla and the region between the alveolar ridge and the palate and a critical point in the median suture for M2, M3, M4, and M5. In M2 and M4, MS spread farther toward and over the pterygoid process, contrary to what was found in M3 and M5. M3 had a better performance than the other models, and the tensile stress was interrupted by the posterior osteotomy, thus avoiding possible damage to the sphenoid bone or difficulties in expanding the posterior region of the maxilla. CONCLUSIONS: The steps in the zygomaticomaxillary buttress and the pterygomaxillary disjunction seem to be important to decrease the harmful dissipation of tensions during SARPE.

Prescriptive proprioceptive insoles and dental orthotics change the frontal plane position of the atlas (C1), mastoid, malar, temporal, and sphenoid bones: a preliminary study.

The purpose of this series of case studies was to determine if the frontal plane position of the cranial bones and atlas could be altered using dental orthotics, prescriptive insoles, or both concurrently. The cranial radiographs of four patients were reviewed for the study. Three of the patients were diagnosed as having a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and a preclinical clubfoot deformity. The fourth patient was diagnosed as having a TMJ dysfunction, a preclinical clubfoot deformity and a Catetgory II sacral occipital subluxation, as designated in the chiropractic's Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT). Each patient had a series of four cranial radiographs taken using a modified orthogonal protocol. In two patients, improvement towards orthogonal was achieved when using both prescriptive dental orthotics and prescriptive insoles concurrently. Improvement towards orthogonal was less apparent when using only the prescriptive dental orthotic. No improvement or a negative frontal plane shift was noted when using only the prescriptive proprioceptive insoles. In the third patient, the frontal plane position of the cranial bones and atlas increased (away from orthogonal) when using the generic proprioceptive insoles alone or in combination with a prescriptive dental orthotic. In the fourth patient, the frontal plane position of the cranial bones improved using the dental orthotic. However, the proprioceptive insoles, when used alone or in combination with the dental orthotic, increased the frontal plane position of the cranial bones and atlas. This study demonstrates that changes in the frontal plane position of the cranial and atlas bones can occur when using proprioceptive insoles and/or dental orthotics.

Isolated pyocele of anterior clinoid process presenting as a cavernous sinus syndrome.

A 37-year-old man presented with fever, decreased vision in the left eye, a partial left cranial nerve III paresis, and a left cranial nerve VI paresis. Neuro-imaging showed an opacification of a left pneumatised anterior clinoid process. After failing a course of intravenous antibiotics, a craniotomy was performed with exenteration of the cavity and resolution of symptoms. Although rare, a pyocele of a pneumatised anterior clinoid process may cause ocular morbidity and require surgical intervention.

Provocation testing to assist craniomandibular pain diagnosis.

Patients with TMD often present with complex pain symptoms, which can make it difficult to reach a diagnosis. Usually palpation of the masticatory muscles and TM joints, range of motion testing and imaging are used in the diagnostic process. Sometimes it is necessary to evaluate the jaw moving muscles from a functional prospective because they cannot be palpated due to inaccessibility or because they have other structures that are more superficial to them. In these instances, provocation testing can be a helpful adjunct in providing some insight into what is occurring in the area being tested and localizing a suspected source of pain. Anesthesia blocking can be used to confirm any positive findings. This article explores several provocation tests that can be used to evaluate conditions of the masticatory musculature, the TM joints and the stylomandibular ligament.

Maxillary protraction with and without maxillary expansion: a finite element analysis of sutural stresses.

INTRODUCTION: In this finite element study, we compared the stress patterns along the various craniofacial sutures with maxillary protraction with and without expansion. METHODS: Two 3-dimensional analytic models were developed, 1 simulating maxillary protraction and the other simulating maxillary protraction with expansion. The model consisted of 108799 10 node solid 92 elements (tetrahedron), 193633 nodes, and 580899 degrees of freedom. RESULTS: The overall stresses after maxillary protraction with maxillary expansion were significantly higher than with a facemask alone. The magnitude of stress on the craniofacial sutures with maxillary protraction alone was in the range of a few millinewtons per square millimeter, whereas, with maxillary protraction with maxillary expansion, the stresses ranged from a few newtons per square millimeter to a few hundred newtons per square millimeter. The pattern of stress distribution also differed with the 2 treatment modalities as did the sutures experiencing maximum and minimum stresses. CONCLUSIONS: The osteogenic potential of such low stresses after maxillary protraction can be questioned. High stresses generated in various craniofacial sutures after maxillary protraction with expansion are responsible for disrupting the circummaxillary sutural system and presumably facilitating the orthopedic effect of the facemask.

[Re-evaluation of using acupuncture needle as sphenoidal electrode in temporal lobe epilepsy].

In 1965, Feng of the Peking Union Hospital published an article entitled "Innovation in electroencephalography: the use of acupuncture needles as sphenoidal electrodes". It was a preliminary report, but surprisingly EEG records in the figures did not show definite spikes or sharp waves in the sphenoidal leads. In 1983, Feng and his colleagues reported a summary of 2,000 cases studied with acupuncture needle sphenoidal electrodes. This time, spikes or sharp waves were shown in EEG recordings. However, cases studied were several "paroxysmal disorders", including psychomotor seizure (155 cases), generalized seizure (765 cases), epileptic cephalgia (101 cases), syncope (104 cases), abdominal epilepsy (24 cases), encephalopathy (135 cases), brain tumor (32 cases), hemiplegia of unknown cause (43 cases), psychosis (34 cases), and others (607 cases). Therefore, there were many unknown cases and many cases that were not related to temporal lobe epilepsy. Surprisingly, the increase in detection by acupuncture needle electrode was higher for hemiplegia of unknown cause, brain tumors, and encephalopathies than for the temporal lobe epilepsy. Furthermore, the issue of no insulation of the acupuncture needle was not addressed. Therefore, we began in 1988 to reinvestigate the usefulness of uninsulated acupuncture needles as sphenoidal electrodes. We also compared the efficacy of anterior temporal electrodes (T1, T2) with those of acupuncture needle and EMG needle. Our results showed that when compared to the routine EEG recordings, acupuncture needle sphenoidal electrodes increased the yield of detecting anterior temporal spikes from 41% to 70%. Our data further showed that when compared to the EMG needle recordings, acupuncture needle recordings had the same detection rate, but the spike amplitude was slightly smaller (129 microv vs. 135 microv). Interestingly, we also found that anterior temporal surface electrode recordings were nearly as good as those of acupuncture needle and traditional insulated needle electrodes in the detection of anterior temporal spikes. Our data indicate that acupuncture needle sphenoidal electrode is as effective as the traditional insulated needle sphenoidal electrode in the detection of anterior temporal spikes. We agree with Feng that the use of acupuncture needle is easy, safe, and has minimal discomfort and complications. However, when the use of the acupuncture needle is not acceptable to patients or as in the pediatric group, anterior temporal electrode is an ideal alternative to acupuncture needle sphenoidal electrode.

Biomechanical effects of fixed functional appliance on craniofacial structures.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate displacement and stress distribution on craniofacial structures associated with fixed functional therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A finite element model of the human skull was constructed from sequential computed tomography images at 2-mm intervals using a dry adult human skull. In this study, linear, four-nodal, tetramesh and triangular shell elements were used with six degrees of freedom at each of their unstrained nodes: three translations (x, y, and z) and three rotations (around the x-, y-, and z-axes). RESULTS: The entire mandible moved anteroinferiorly. Maximum displacement was observed in the parasymphyseal and midsymphyseal regions. The pterygoid plate was displaced in a posterosuperior direction. The anteroinferior displacement of the mandibular dentition was most pronounced in the incisor region, while the maxillary dentition was displaced posterosuperiorly. The entire dentition experienced tensile stress except for the maxillary posterior teeth. Tensile stress was also demonstrated at point A, the pterygoid plates, and the mandible, and minimal compressive stress was demonstrated at anterior nasal spine. Maximum tensile stress and von Mises stresses occurred in the condylar neck and head. CONCLUSION: Fixed functional therapy causes a posterosuperior displacement of the maxillary dentition and pterygoid plate and thus can contribute to the correction of Class II malocclusion. The displacement was more pronounced in the dentoalveolar region as compared to the skeletal displacement. All dentoalveolar structures experienced tensile stress, except for anterior nasal spine and the maxillary posterior teeth.

Fluctuating asymmetry and developmental instability in sagittal craniosynostosis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether premature sagittal craniosynostosis is associated with developmental instability in the skull by analyzing fluctuating asymmetry in skull shape. DESIGN: Cranial shape was quantified by collecting coordinate data from landmarks located on three-dimensional reconstructions of preoperative computed tomography (CT) images of 22 children with sagittal craniosynostosis and 22 age-matched controls. A fluctuating asymmetry application of Euclidean distance matrix analysis (EDMA) was used to quantify and compare asymmetry in cranial shape using these landmark data. RESULTS: In contrast to expectations, the sagittal craniosynostosis group did not show a statistically significant increase in the overall level of fluctuating asymmetry relative to the control group. However, we discerned statistically significant localized increases in fluctuating asymmetry in the sagittal craniosynostosis group at pterion and the anterior clinoid processes (alpha = .05). We also determined a significant correlation of fluctuating asymmetry values between the two groups (r = .71). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that there is no evidence of a role for system-wide developmental instability in the etiology of nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. However, the localized evidence of asymmetry at the anterior clinoid processes in the sagittal synostosis group suggests an association with the tracts of dura mater that attach there.

The evaluation of bony union after frontofacial distraction.

Frontofacial advancement by distraction osteogenesis using the rigid external distraction device has become an accepted treatment for the deformity associated with craniofacial dysostoses (e.g., Crouzon, Apert, and Pfeiffer syndromes). The technical and physiological principles of osteogenesis distraction are well understood. This study documents the pattern of calcification at the osteotomy sites after distraction by analysis of serial three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scans. The CT scans of 25 patients (11 with Crouzon, 6 with Apert, and 8 with Pfeiffer syndrome) were analyzed. Eleven individual areas along the osteotomy lines were assessed for evidence of bone formation. Scores were assigned within 4 categories ranging from no bone, calcification without bridge formation, a bony bridge, to complete bony infill (>95%). The scans were reviewed on 2 separate occasions by 2 independent assessors. There was high concordance both for intraobserver and interobserver scores. Rigid external distraction frame removal was undertaken after a 6-week consolidation period. All CT scan timings were calculated from this date. Of the 25 patients studied, 16 patients had CT scans available at 3 to 6 months, 12 at 9 to 12 months, and 7 at or more than 18 months. The scans were available in standard coronal slices with three-dimensional reconstructions. Bone formation is most consistently seen in the pterygoid region with calcification consistently occurring earlier and more completely in this area. Bone formation was often delayed in the orbital region and severely delayed or absent in the frontal region and zygomatic arches. There was no significant difference in the order or quality of bony union for the 3 underlying craniofacial dysostoses. This preliminary study confirms the clinical impression that bone formation after distraction is greatest in the pterygoid regions. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Sutural strain in orthopedic headgear therapy: a finite element analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The goal of this study was to analyze the strains induced in the sutures of the midface and the cranial base by headgear therapy involving orthopedic forces. Does the mechanical signal induced in the sutures sufficiently account for a growth-influencing effect? METHODS: A finite element model of the viscerocranium and the neurocranium was used. It consisted of 53,555 tetrahedral elements and 97,550 nodes. The strain induced in the sutures of the cranial base and the midface when applying orthopedic headgear forces of 5 and 10 N was computed and recorded with an interactive measurement tool. RESULTS: The magnitude and the distribution of the measured strains depended on the level and the direction of the acting force. Overall, the strain values measured at the sutures of the midface and the cranial base were moderate. The measured peak values at a load of 5 N per side were usually just below 20 microstrain irrespective of the force direction. A characteristic distribution of strain values appeared on the anatomical structures of the midface and the cranial base for each vector direction. The measurements based on the finite element method provided a good overview of the approximate magnitudes of sutural strains with orthopedic headgear therapy. The signal arriving in the sutures is apparently well below threshold, since the maximum measured strains in most sutures were about 100 fold lower than the minimal effective strain. A skeletal effect of the orthopedic headgear due to a mechanical effect on sutural growth cannot be confirmed from these results. CONCLUSIONS: The good clinical efficacy of headgear therapy with orthopedic forces is apparently based mainly on dentoalveolar effects, whereas the skeletal effect due to inhibition of sutural growth is somewhat questionable.

Cranial strains and malocclusion: III. Inferior vertical strain.

This article describes the Inferior Vertical Cranial Strain, one of the seven possible cranial strains that are discussed in this series of articles. Clinicians have to understand cranial strains to better treat their patients. There is a major link between the malocclusion we see and the underlying physiology of the patients. With airway restriction, it is necessary to understand the cranial, postural and facial factors as well as the soft tissue contribution for a more effective overall treatment of the patient.

Study of stress distribution and displacement of various craniofacial structures following application of transverse orthopedic forces--a three-dimensional FEM study.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the stress distribution patterns within the craniofacial complex during rapid maxillary expansion. Therefore, a finite element model of a young human skull was generated using data from computerized tomographic scans of a dried skull. The model was then strained to a state of maxillary expansion simulating the clinical situation. The three-dimensional pattern of displacement and stress distribution was then analyzed. Maximum lateral displacement was 5.313 mm at the region of upper central incisors. The inferior parts of the pterygoid plates were also markedly displaced laterally. But there was minimum displacement of the pterygoid plates approximating the cranial base. Maximum forward displacement was 1.077 mm and was seen at the region of the anteroinferior border of the nasal septum. In the vertical plane, the midline structures experienced a downward displacement. Even the ANS and point A moved downward. The findings of this study provide some additional explanation of the concept of correlation between the areas of increased cellular activity and the areas of dissipation of heavy orthopedic forces. Therefore, the reason for the occurrence of sensation of pressure at various craniofacial regions, reported by the patients undergoing maxillary expansion could be correlated to areas of high concentration of stresses as seen in this study. Additionally, the expansive forces are not restricted to the intermaxillary suture alone but are also distributed to the sphenoid and zygomatic bones and other associated structures.

Anterior paraclinoid aneurysms.

OBJECT: The characteristics of a previously unclassified paraclinoid aneurysm arising from the anterolateral (dorsal) wall of the proximal internal carotid artery were retrospectively analyzed in seven patients (five women and two men) who were treated surgically for an aneurysm in this unusual location. METHODS: One patient presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) caused by rupture of this aneurysm. The lesions were found incidentally (five cases) or during investigation of SAH due to another aneurysm (one case). There was a female predominance in this series; all female patients harbored multiple aneurysms. All patients underwent surgery. Removal of the anterior clinoid process was necessary because the proximal neck of the aneurysm was closely adjacent to the dural ring. CONCLUSIONS: This special group of aneurysms is very rare, is located exclusively in the intradural space, and carries the risk of SAH. The results of surgical treatment for this aneurysm are quite satisfactory.