Permalink : http://hdl.handle.net/2115/67352

KEYWORDS : palatal plate;PCDME gel;cleft lip and palate;speech therapy;adhesiveness

In some patients with cleft lip and palate, the palatal cleft is wide and three-dimensionally deformed at birth. This can result in difficulty in sucking, which subsequently causes poor weight and development. The resin-based palatal plate for patients is maintained in position with retentive components such as a ball clasp and Adams clasp. In this study, we report on our experience conducting research and developing a palatal plate that consists of PCDME [Poly-N-(carboxymethyl)-N,N-dimethyl-2-(methacryloyloxy) ethanaminium] gel adhered to a polycarbonate frame. The gel is viscous and adheres to the mucosa, thereby maintaining the plate. Moreover, there are no retentive components, such as clasps for attachment and detachment ; therefore, it can been worn with a comfortable fitting, i.e ., tight and with sufficient pressure. If this device is put to practical use, the burden on patients with cleft palate could be reduced considerably.