American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

Le Fort osteotomy, specifically the Le Fort I type, is considered more stable in terms of maxillary expansion. This surgical technique involves cutting the maxilla and repositioning it in a more advantageous position while maintaining the integrity of the surrounding structures, including the nasal cavity and orbital floor.

One reason for its stability is that the Le Fort I procedure allows for bony healing in a well-vascularized area, which can promote better long-term stability after the surgical adjustment. Additionally, during the Le Fort procedure, there are often rigid fixation methods employed, such as plates and screws, which help to stabilize the repositioned maxillary segment.

On the other hand, the SARPE (Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) technique is effective for facilitating expansion of the maxilla but can sometimes lead to less stable results when compared to the Le Fort osteotomy. SARPE is typically used in cases where expansion is needed but involves separating the midpalatal suture and can present a greater chance of relapse.

This understanding underscores the importance of choosing the appropriate surgical technique based on the desired outcomes for maxillary expansion and the specific circumstances of the patient's dental and skeletal relationships.