Correlation between cervical vertebrae maturation stage and midpalatal suture maturation stage: an observational analytic study

Introduction: Malocclusion is one of the major dental and oral health issues that can affect orofacial function, aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being. One of the treatments for malocclusion, especially class II and class III cases often associated with maxillary constriction, is Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME). Successful RME treatment requires evaluation of the Midpalatal Suture Maturation Stage (MPSMS) using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). However, CBCT entails increased cost and radiation exposure. Meanwhile, the Cervical Vertebrae Maturation Stage (CVMS) serves as a biological indicator of skeletal growth. Unlike MPSMS, CVMS can be assessed using cephalograms, which are routinely used in orthodontics. This study aims to analyze the correlation between CVMS and MPSMS. Methods: This study used an observational analytic research design with a consecutive sampling method. Secondary data of cephalogram and CBCT images ofc 47 subjects aged 8–19 years were analyzed. CVMS was assessed using the Baccetti method, while MPSMS was evaluated using the Angelieri method. The Spearman rank correlation test was applied to assess the correlation between the two variables. This research was conducted at the Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Trisakti University from September to December 2024. Results: The results showed a distribution of MPSMS stages (A to E) corresponding to increasing CVMS stages (CS1 to CS5). Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong and highly significant positive correlation between CVMS and MPSMS, with a correlation coefficient of r=0.640 and p<0.001, consistent across the entire sample and within gender subgroups. Conclusion: There is a significant positive correlation between cervical vertebrae maturation stage and midpalatal suture maturation stage.