A possible otological complication due to maxillary expansion in a cleft lip and palate patient.

Objective: We present a possible negative side effect of a sudden onset of secretory otitis media in a 12-year-old boy with unilateral cleft lip and palate who underwent maxillary expansion. The secretory otitis media caused a temporary hearing loss developed during the activation of the expander appliance. The possible causes for this complication are discussed.