Electromyographic investigation of masticatory muscles in unilateral cleft lip and palate patients with anterior crossbite.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the characteristics of masticatory muscle activity in operated unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) patients with anterior crossbite compared with normal individuals.

SUBJECTS

Sixteen male and 13 female Chinese patients with UCLP and anterior crossbite. Fifteen male and 13 female Chinese individuals without cleft abnormalities served as a control group.

DESIGN

Electromyographic activity of the masseter muscles and anterior temporalis muscles was recorded bilaterally in different mandibular positions using bipolar surface electrodes.

RESULTS

Compared to noncleft controls, patients with UCLP demonstrated (1) higher activation levels of masseter and temporalis muscles in the rest position, (2) lower potential function of masseter and temporalis, (3) inharmonious activity of the masticatory muscles during mandibular border movement, (4) a higher asymmetry index of the masseter and temporalis muscles, and (5) longer silent periods of the two muscles.

CONCLUSIONS

The function of masticatory muscles is different in patients with UCLP with anterior crossbite. Muscle function should be considered when evaluating cleft patients for orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery.