Orthodontic procedures in gross dentofacial malformations

1. The gross dentofacial malformations presented included only cleft lip and cleft palate, ankylosis of the temporomandibular articulation, and the surgical correction of prognathous mandibles. 2. The orthodontic procedure in these conditions was part of an over-all plan, which included other surgical and dental specialties. 3. The orthodontic procedures, wherever and whenever possible, utilized orthodontic appliances in combination with restorations to supply missing teeth, or deficient or absent structures. Thus, the occlusion was corrected and at the same time provided mechanical substitutes for missing parts. 4. Whenever possible the treatment was aimed to correct the deformity, or to reduce the physical handicap, and thereby alleviate the mental suffering of the facial cripple. In the treatment of gross dentofacial deformities, specialties other than orthodontics play an important and integral part. For his inspiring guidance, encouragement, and surgical skill, I am indebted to the late Carl G. Burdick, M.D., who was chief of the General Surgical Service, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, N. Y., and whose kindness will always be remembered. For their splendid cooperation and skillful surgical coordination, I wish to express my gratitude to Fenwick Beekman, M.D., Bradley Coley, M.D., Norman Higenbotham, M.D., Yolande H. Huber, M.D., and Roland L. Maier, M.D., of the Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, N. Y., to Arthur S. McQuillan, M.D., and Leo Winter, M.D., D.D.S., of Bellevue Hospital, New York, N. Y. and David Tanchester, D.D.S., of Montefiore Hospital, New York, N. Y.