A team of University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel, easy-to-use tool to measure alveolar overjet in very young children with craniofacial abnormalities.
Description
Pediatric patients can experience restricted growth in the mandible or maxilla. This can be a result of craniofacial pathologies due to congenital abnormalities, surgical, or other disruption of growth of these bones. The boney structure underlying the gums in the mouth is the alveolus. If there is a restriction in the relative growth of the mandible to the maxilla (or vice versa), this is an alveolar overjet (or underjet). A key element of determining the need for surgical correction, and the extent to which surgical correction should be done, is the measurement of alveolar overjet. This device allows for simple measurement of alveolar overjet using a simple-to-use handheld device.
Applications
• Craniofacial pathologies
• Craniofacial abnormalities
• Congenital disorders
• Pediatric facial surgery
Advantages
Currently there is no standardized way to measure alveolar overjet in a clinical setting. Calipers are currently used, and it can be difficult to obtain clinically precise measurements.
The device presented here is easier to use than the current calipers. Additionally, it has been designed to be either disposable (3D-printed) or non-disposable (metal) ensuring it can take measurements in either an office or operating room setting.
Invention Readiness
A prototype 3D-printed device has been engineered. A disposable version of the device can be made using 3D-printing, or a reusable version can be made from metal for using in consultation offices or operating room settings.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024006707A2
