Growth of the maxilla after soft tissue palatal surgery at different ages in beagle dogs: A longitudinal radiographic study

This study investigated maxillary growth after palatal surgery at different ages in beagle dogs. Soft tissue clefts were created in the median region of the palate at the age of 6 (group 1), 16 (group 2), and 25 weeks (group 3). Relaxation incisions were made, and the mucoperiosteum was elevated and closed in the midline, leaving two areas of denuded bone adjacent to the dentition. Metallic implants were placed in the palate, and dorso-ventral and lateral radiographs were made until the age of 37 weeks to study sutural growth and overall growth of the maxilla.
In groups 1 and 2, growth in the midpalatal suture was less, compared to the control, from 16 to 25 weeks and from 16 to 37 weeks of age. In group 2, less increase was also found in the transverse palatal sutures. Group 3, the sham group, and the control group did not show significant differences. None of the dimensions measured on the lateral radiographs showed any significant differences for any group.
It was concluded that palatal surgery as performed in this study has no influence on vertical and antero-posterior maxillary growth; only transverse palatal growth is influenced to a minor degree, especially when surgery is performed before or during the eruption of the permanent posterior teeth.