OBJECTIVETo investigate the biomechanical force distribution of three different cleft maxillary finite-element models pre- and post-bone graft with specified load to certain area of the models.

METHODSDeveloping a cleft palate bony model from a 15-year cleft palate male CT scan DICOM data and generating alveolar bone-grafted, alveolopalatal bone-grafted cleft maxillary finite-element model was set up through gluing the graft model. Also the pre-grafted model as compared, vector lip force on the anterior and anteriolateral face of the alveolar ridge was applied, and studied the press distribution properties and localized area.

RESULTSThe press principal spread along the alveolar ridge and focused on anterior wall of maxillary prior to graft. But the press tended to be evenly distributed after bone grafted, whether alveolar or/and hard palate bone grafted. The grafted bone could resisted the medially deformation of alveolar crest and decreased the shear press to the nasal base bony structure. The map showed no significant differences along with alveolar or/and hard palate bone graft.

CONCLUSIONThe postoperative lip pressure plays an important role for the deformation and deviation of alveolar ridge. Alveolar bone graft could even the distribution of the stresses and should be emphasized. But the grafted bony palatal appears superior to but no significant mapping and anti-deformation difference with alveolar bone graft.