An adequate transverse maxillary dimension is one of the critical aspects of a functional and stable occlusion. SARPE consists of a surgical liberation of the sites of resistance combined using orthopedic forces. Most technical descriptions advocate the use of general anesthesia with hospital admission.

Object: The aim of this paper is to present our ten year experience with a minimally invasive, limited approach for Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion.

Methods: Between March 2000 and December 2010, SARPE was performed on 335 consecutive cases with transverse skeletal maxillary hypoplasia. The incision ran horizontally to reach the level of the laterals. Osteotomies of lateral walls and pterygoid disjunction were performed in all cases. Patients were discharged after recovery from sedation. Surgical time, complications and degree of expansion at one year were recorded.

Results: Mean surgical time was 19 min. At the 1-year follow-up visit, mean expansion was 7.8 at the canines and 8.8 at the mesiovestibular cuspid of the first molar.

Conclusion: This technique seeks to attain a balance between maximum mobilization of the maxilla with a complete liberation of all the buttresses and minimum morbidity. The minimal approach and incision used in the technique guarantee vascular support to the maxilla.

Conflict of interest: None declared.