Applicability of a palatal distractor for surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion: case report of a prototype

Background: The surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) is an alternative for correction of transverse deficiencies. In adult patients, once the intermaxillary suture is consolidated, the ortho-surgical approach is necessary. The apparatus commonly used is the Hyrax, a dento-supported distractor. Therefore, it is contraindicated for edentulous or periodontal patients. The treatment for these patients relies on the palatine distractors, which are economically unviable for our public health system.