IntroductionChildren with cleft lip and palate (CLP) are known to have airway problems. Previous studies have shown that individuals with CLP have a 30% reduction in nasal airway size compared to non-cleft controls. No reports have been found on cross-sectional area and volume of the pharyngeal airway in clefts. Introduction of Cone-Beam CT (CBCT) and imaging software has facilitated generation of 3D images for assessment of the cross-sectional area and volume of the airway.ObjectiveTo assess the pharyngeal airway in individuals with CLP using CBCT by measuring volume and smallest cross-sectional areas and compare with 19 age- and sex-matched non-cleft controls.MethodsRetrospective study of CBCT data of pre-adolescent individuals (N = 19, Mean age = 10.6, 7 females, 12 males, UCLP = 6, BCLP = 3) from the Center for Craniofacial Anomalies. Volumetric analysis was performed using image segmentation features in CB Works 3.0. Volume and smallest cross-sectional were studied in both groups. Seven measurements were repeated to verify reliability using Pearson correlation coefficient. Volume and cross-sectional area differences were analyzed using paired t-tests.ResultsThe method was found to be reliable. Individuals with CLP did not exhibit smaller total airway volume and cross sectional area than non-CLP controls.Conclusion3D imaging using CBCT and CB Works is reliable for assessing airway volume. Previous studies have shown that the nasal airway is restricted in individuals with CLP. In our study, we found that the pharyngeal airway is not compromised in these individuals.

Introduction While current techniques for accelerated tooth movement (ATM) often involve invasive surgical procedures, micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) using mini-implants (MI) may facilitate orthodontic tooth movement without raising flaps, reducing surgical risks and increasing patient acceptance. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of MI-facilitated MOPs in inducing ATM and investigated potential risks for root resorption. Methods Five MOPs were placed on the left side around the maxillary first molars in six rats using an automated MI driver, while the right side received no MOPs as a control. Closed-coiled springs were secured from incisors to first molars for orthodontic tooth movement. Tooth movement was measured and samples underwent radiological and histological analyses. Results The MOP side exhibited a 1.86-fold increase in the rate of tooth movement with decreased bone density and decreased bone volume around first molars compared to the control. H&E and TRAP analysis showed increased numbers of osteoclasts as well as new bone formation. Three dimensional volumetric analysis of all five roots of maxillary first molars demonstrated no statistically significant difference in root volumes. Conclusions MI-facilitated MOPs accelerated tooth movement without increased risk for root resorption, and therefore may become a readily available and efficient treatment option to shorten orthodontic treatment time with improved patient acceptance.

METHODS: Peripartum patients at Monduli District Hospital were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire while hospitalized; transcripts were coded for recurrent themes. RESULTS:One hundred four interviews were conducted with peripartum women. Most (76%) had primary school education or less and were married (91%). Antenatal clinic attendance at least once during the most recent pregnancy was high (97%). In this population, 41% delivered their first neonate before age 19 years; and 5% before age 16 years. One or more cesarean deliveries were performed in 25%. At least one home delivery occurred in 27% and 38% had used a traditional birth attendant. Transportation and money were top barriers to access to hospitals. Half (50%) of women reported being involved in the decision to go to the hospital. Nearly all expressed interest in and desire for future access to maternity home services.