Effects of rapid maxillary expansion on three-dimensional angular and linear parameters of the Eustachian and auditory tubes in adolescents: A cone-beam computed tomography study.

BACKGROUND

Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a common treatment for maxillofacial skeletal abnormalities. Numerous studies have explored the impact of RME on skeletal, dental and nasal structures.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of RME on the three-dimensional (3D) Eustachian tube (ET) and auditory tube morphologies of adolescents using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 97 patients (59 females and 38 males; age: 13.27 ±2.10 years) with maxillary transversal deficiencies who had undergone orthodontic RME were enrolled in the study. The treatment concluded when a cusp-to-cusp relationship was achieved between the palatal cusp of the maxillary first molar and the buccal cusp of the mandibular first molar. Cone-beam computed tomography was performed before maxillary expansion (T0) and after expansion (T1). The measurement of 2 linear and 4 angular, 3D, right and left ET parameters, as well as the ET and auditory tube angles, was conducted. The paired t-test was used to compare the data.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between T0 and T1 in any angular or linear ET parameters or the left auditory tube angle (p > 0.05). The T0 right auditory tube angle was significantly greater than the T1 angle (p < 0.05). Rapid maxillary expansion did not modify the 3D ET parameters; only the right auditory tube angulation improved after expansion.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to conventional radiography, CBCT provides better morphological, angular and linear data regarding the ET and auditory structures. No significant differences were observed in linear or angular ET parameters based on the status of maxillary expansion treatment. The right auditory tube angle differed significantly between T0 and T1.