BACKGROUND: The authors present a novel nasoalveolar molding protocol by prefabricating sets of nasoalveolar molding appliances using three-dimensional technology. METHODS: Prospectively, 17 @entity1 with @entity3384 underwent the authors' protocol before primary cheiloplasty. An initial nasoalveolar molding appliance was created based on the @entity1 's first and only in- @entity1 maxillary cast, produced from a traditional intraoral dental impression. Thereafter, each @entity1 's molding course was simulated using computer software that aimed to narrow the alveolar gap by 1 mm each week by rotating the greater alveolar segment. A maxillary cast of each predicted molding stage was created using three-dimensional printing. Subsequent appliances were constructed in advance, based on the series of computer-generated casts. Each @entity1 had a total three clinic visits spaced 1 month apart. Anthropometric measurements and bony segment volumes were recorded before and after treatment. RESULTS: @entity2419 widths narrowed significantly (p < 0.01), soft-tissue volume of each segment expanded (p < 0.01), and the arc of the alveolus became more contiguous across the cleft (p < 0.01). One @entity1 required a new appliance at the second visit because of @entity548 and discomfort. Eleven @entity1 had mucosal irritation and two experienced @entity9645 . CONCLUSIONS: Three-dimensional technology can precisely represent anatomic structures in pediatric clefts. Results from the authors' algorithm are equivalent to those of traditional nasoalveolar molding therapies; however, the number of required clinic visits and appliance adjustments decreased. As three-dimensional technology costs decrease, multidisciplinary teams may design customized nasoalveolar molding treatment with improved efficiency and less burden to medical staff, @entity1 , and families. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Presurgical nasoalveolar molding for XXXX : the application of digitally designed molds.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['patients', 'patient', 'infants', 'person'] @entity548 :: ('MESH:D006470', 'Disease') :: ['bleeding'] @entity9645 :: ('MESH:D019226', 'Disease') :: ['minor mucosal ulceration'] @entity2419 :: ('MESH:D002972', 'Disease') :: ['Alveolar cleft'] @entity3384 :: ('MESH:D002971', 'Disease') :: ['unilateral complete cleft lip and palate']
@entity3384 :: (MESH:D002971,Disease) :: ['cleft lip and palate']
