Available Technology
Harvard Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (HARPE)
Technology:
Novel Orthodontic expander. The Harvard Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (HARPE), allows for differential expansion in both the anterior and posterior segments of the maxilla as well as unilateral and bilateral molar distalization. Additionally, this device can be customized chairside without additional laboratory fabrication costs and requires only a single visit by the patient and/or parents.
Markets Addressed
Background. Anterior and posterior crossbites are the most common dental malocclusion in young children due to various etiologies. The condition due to insufficient maxillary arch width in various dimensions can cause further skeletal growth problems if left untreated. Expansion of the maxilla relies on rapid palatal expander devices that deliver forces to break the mid-palatal and circum-maxillary sutures to facilitate transverse and sagital dento-facial correction. Current expansion appliances are limited to transverse bilateral expansion in the posterior region of the maxilla.
Innovations and Advantages
This novel palatal expander gives the orthodontist endless freedom to direct expansion forces to various segments of the maxillary arch. Orthodontists can now assemble and deliver a palatal expander chairside and have the autonomy to customize unique bilateral and unilateral expansion. In addition, this appliance can distalize molars and compatible with reverse pull headgears (facemask) therapy. Specific applications include:
• Assembly and delivery of appliance chairside in one visit
• Bilateral and unilateral differential transverse expansion
• Molar distalization
Additional Information
Intellectual Property Status: Patent(s) pending
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Inventor(s):
Butt, Mohamed Hanif
Popat, Rishi
Categories:
For further information, please contact:
Grant Zimmermann, Director of Business Development
(617) 495-3067
Reference Harvard Case #4226