Heterogeneity of studies | |
---|---|
Variables | List |
Different study designs | Retrospective [36,44], prospective [32,34], randomised [58,64]. |
Different overall aims | Assessment of the molding of the nasal cartilage [27,44], molding of the alveolar possesses [40,42]. |
Mixed criteria for evaluating results | Landmarks on casts [26], cephalometry, facial photographs [43,44], photographs on cast [45,46], three-dimensional optical scanner on the cast [64], three-dimensional optical facial scanner [62,63]. |
Inadequate sample sizes | Small sample size [17,19], without control group [27]. |
Inconsistent follow-up period | Before the primary surgery (during the first 18 months), after the primary surgeries [22,23,26]. |
Heterogeneity of appliances | Hotz plate [41,43], Grayson NAM [40]. |
Variable age of the patient | When the appliance was used, when primary surgeries were performed. |
Mixed level of surgeon experience [12] |
NAM = nasoalveolar molding. |