The Evolution of Mini-implant Assisted Midfacial Expansion, the Latest Developments and Advanced Applications

The mini-implant assisted rapid palatal expander (MARPE) has evolved since the early 2000's. The use of Maxillary Skeletal Expander (MSE), a particular type of MARPE, has been steadily growing globally. With a proliferation of MSE related publications by multiple authors, there is clear evidence to support its impact. This presentation will cover a brief overview of its evolution, the current usage, the latest developments and the advanced applications of MSE. Some recent discoveries will be explored with research data. Clinical cases involving non-surgical midfacial expansion in both adolescent and adult patients will be examined in detail. Secondly, other advantages of utilizing MSE for patients with nasal airway obstruction, Class III skeletal relationship and other complex problems, will be demonstrated.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that a different appliance design can produces different results, and that non-surgical skeletal expansion and protraction in mature patients is possible.
• Witness MSE could be combined with less invasive surgical procedures for more challenging cases.
• Appreciate other advantages of using MSE, particularly for patients with high angle, nasal airway obstruction, Class III skeletal relationship and other complex problems.