Analysis of errors in following the rapid maxillary expansion activation protocol: An observational study.

AIM: The aim of this study is to analyse the correspondence between the reported number of activations and the number of prescribed activations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 114 subjects with constricted maxillary arches (58 males, 56 females; mean age 10.26 ± 1.92 years) were enrolled in the study. The subjects underwent RME and all the parents were provided with a screw activations report form in order to remind them the number of prescribed activations. At the removal of the expander, the screw was turned back in order to count the effective number of activations applied. RESULTS: In 46 cases, out of a total of 114 patients, an involuntary error during the activation procedure was presumably made. A slight statistically significant correlation between the number of activations prescribed, and the number of incorrect activations was found. The errors consisted in added or missed activations, compared to the prescribed number but more frequently in missed activations with statistical significance. CONCLUSION: Errors in following the rapid palatal expansion activation protocol are not uncommon. These errors could consist in missed or added activations to the number prescribed by the orthodontist, more often in missed ctivations.