Evaluation of the Rigid Adjustable Pin (RAP) System in Maxillary Stabilization

Abstract

Six patients were selected for this study. All patients were females and were suffering from vertical maxillary excess that gave them both a long face appearance and a gummy smile as well. All patients under went thorough history taking, clinical examination, photographic assessment, radiographic evaluation and study model analysis prior to their nomination for a surgical interference. Patients who needed presurgical orthodontics for leveling and alignment had it performed.

Cephalometric tracing was performed for all selected patients, and certain linear and angular measurements were recorded in order to be compared to postoperative and follow up results to assess the surgical change and relapse.

Maxillary face bow records had been performed to all patients and study models mounted onto a semi-adjustable articulator. The planned surgery was then performed on the models, and as the maxilla was superiorly repositioned, the expected mandibular autorotation could be assessed on the articulator. Foilowing completion of model surgery, an acrylic resin occlusal wafer was fabricated to aid in achieving the precise result in the operating theatre.