Objective To explore a faster and more precise method to establish a 3-dimensional (3 D) finite element model of maxillary in human complete unilateral cleft lip and palate. Methods The surface of the model was created using Materialists Interactive Medical Image Control System (Mimics) software to deal with Dicom standard files obtained by scanning the cranium of the patient with multi-slice helical CT. The 3D finite element model for complete unilateral cleft lip and plate in maxillary was established by Ansys software. Results A 3D finite element model of maxillary in human complete unilateral cleft lip and palate was constructed with 27 405 units and 26 876 nodes. Conclusion The combination of Mimics software, Geomagic studio software, Ansys software, and spiral CT is able to create a 3D finite element counter model, which provides a faster and more valid method to study complete unilateral cleft lip and palate.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of simulated protraction after maxillary fissure repair on stress and shift of maxillary bone and to provide the scientific evidence for treatment of maxilla in patients with cleft lip and palate. METHODS: Based on the establishment of 3-dimensional finite element model of maxilla with cleft lip and palate, we used ANSYS 10.0 software to simulate protraction, repair fissures of maxillary bone, and then analyzed the change of maxillary stress and shift. RESULTS: The maxillary fissures could be enlarged by protraction without reparation of maxillary. Obvious motion was observed on the uninjured side, with 500 g/per lateral protraction and 30 degree protraction angle. The major principal stress and von Mises stress of craniofacial bone distributed evenly under protraction after fissure repair. CONCLUSION The maxillary fissures have an enlarged trend by protraction without repair.The protraction treatment benefits the development of maxillary bone after repairing maxillary fissure.
Biomechanical Phenomena ; Cleft Lip ; therapy ; Cleft Palate ; therapy ; Extraoral Traction Appliances ; Finite Element Analysis ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Malocclusion ; therapy ; Maxilla ; physiology ; Retrognathia ; therapy

OBJECTIVE: To determine the rule of simulated protraction and palate expansion on shift of maxillary bone,and to supply the scientific data for treating maxilla in patients with cleft lip and palate. METHODS: Based on the establishment of 3-dimensional finite element model of maxilla with cleft lip and palate, we used ANSYS 10.0 software to simulate protraction and expand fissures of palate, and analyzed the changes of maxillary shift. RESULTS: After the simulated protraction and pa-late expansion,an upward, forward, and outward growth occurred on maxilla, and the normal lateral bow had no internal shrinkage as well as the abnormal one. CONCLUSION Combined palate expansion with maxillary protraction treatment in patients with cleft lip and palate tend to improve the development of maxillary bone.
Biomechanical Phenomena ; Cleft Lip ; therapy ; Cleft Palate ; therapy ; Extraoral Traction Appliances ; Finite Element Analysis ; Humans ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Malocclusion ; therapy ; Maxilla ; physiology ; Palatal Expansion Technique ; Retrognathia ; therapy