Objective: To assess the morphology and maturation of the cervical vertebrae in patients with different vertical growth pattern.
Subjects and methods: one hundred and fifty lateral cephalometric radiographs were collected and classified into three equal groups. Group one representing vertical growth pattern (SN\Go-Gn≥35),group two representing horizontal growth pattern (SN\Go-Gn≤28) and group three is the control group with average growth pattern (SN\Go-Gn=30±2). The cervical vertebrae morphology was compared between the three groups using linear and angular cephalometric measurements. The cervical maturation will be assessed according to the CVM staging system.
Results: Significant differences in head posture were found in relation to cervical column (SN/CVTº, SN/OPTº) between the studied groups (p < 0.001). Linear vertical measurement between fourth cervical vertebra and anterior cranial base (S-CV4) was significantly greater by 5.25mm in horizontal than in vertical group. Group one (vertical)showed the greatest cervical vertebral maturity, whereas group two( horizontal) showed the least cervical vertebral maturity.
Conclusions: The head was more extended in relation to cervical vertebral column in subjects with average growth pattern than those with horizontal and vertical growth pattern. Individuals with horizontal growth pattern showed delayed skeletal maturation when compared to vertical growers.