Finite element simulations of the effects of an extraoral device, RAMPA, on anterosuperior protraction of the maxilla and comparison with gHu-1 intraoral device.

Objectives: To investigate the effects of an extraoral device, right-angle maxillary protraction appliance (RAMPA), combined with a semi-rapid maxillary expansion intraoral device (gHu-1) on the anterosuperior protraction of maxillary bone.

Materials And Methods: The finite element (FE) model included craniofacial bones and all sutures. The linear assumption was assumed for the FE simulations and the material properties of bones and sutures.