Comparative Evaluation of Spheno-Occipital Synchondrosis Fusion and Cervical Vertebral Maturation Index in Predicting Mandibular Peak Growth in Adolescent (Aged 12-18 Years): An Observational Study

This study focuses on developing a new method for assessing mandibular peak growth using the Spheno-Occipital Synchondrosis (SOS), a potentially more accurate and reliable alternative to the existing gold standard, the Cervical Vertebral Maturation Index (CVMI). While CVMI is commonly used in orthodontics to evaluate the timing of mandibular growth, its accuracy can be influenced by individual patient variations, leading to inconsistencies in treatment planning.

The research aims to establish SOS as a new and more precise marker for mandibular growth by utilizing CBCT scans to evaluate the synchondrosis. By comparing the results with CVMI, the study will determine if SOS offers enhanced predictability and better outcomes for orthodontic treatment. The investigation will be conducted at the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Ranjeet Deshmukh Dental College and Research Centre, Nagpur, in collaboration with the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology.

The primary objective of this research is to validate SOS as an innovative tool for assessing mandibular growth, which could help orthodontists create more individualized treatment plans. If successful, the SOS method could replace or supplement CVMI, offering a more accurate, consistent, and biologically informed approach to growth prediction.

This study aims to contribute to the advancement of orthodontic practice by providing a refined methodology for evaluating mandibular growth, potentially improving diagnosis, treatment timing, and overall patient care.