Comparison between two techniques for registering mandibular position in patients with hemifacial microsomia of the Federico Gomez Children’s Hospital

Resumen

To determine the true position of the mandible is one of the most important aspects of orthodontic-surgical diagnosis. It provides information about the skeletal discrepancy between the maxilla and mandible even in patients with conditions other than a normal pattern of mandibular stability. In patients with hemifacial microsomia it is diffi cult to determine the true position of the mandible, since due to their condition, they present structural alterations that hinder record taking. The purpose of this study was to assess two techniques for recording mandibular position (power centric technique and the gothic arch technique) to determine the most effective method to provide greater accuracy in the record taking process. Eight patients with hemifacial microsomia, ages between 13 and 17, four female (50%) and four male (50%) were assessed. A total of 16 semi-adjustable articulator mountings were conducted using both techniques. Changes in the overjet, vertical discrepancy and between dental midlines were monitored. The results showed that there were signifi cant sagittal, vertical and transverse differences with the gothic arch technique.

Key words: Hemifacial microsomia, gothic arch, power centric.