Duane K. Yamashiro

Duane K. Yamashiro serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Utah and Medical Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program at Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City. His clinical work focuses on comprehensive craniofacial care for pediatric patients with cleft conditions and other congenital anomalies.

His educational journey includes:

• Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Loma Linda University
• Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of the Pacific School of Dentistry
• Pediatric Dentistry Residency at Primary Children’s Medical Center
• Master of Science and Orthodontic Residency at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry

Dr. Yamashiro specializes in craniofacial orthodontics and surgical-orthodontic management of cleft lip/palate patients. His expertise spans alveolar bone grafting, presurgical orthopedics, and innovative techniques like custom maxillary splints and reverse palatal expanders. He emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration across surgical, dental, and medical specialties to optimize functional and aesthetic outcomes throughout patients' developmental stages.

Analysis of his 2018-2024 publications reveals concentrated research on improving alveolar cleft repair outcomes through biomaterial comparisons (demineralized bone matrix, BMP, freeze-dried chips), novel approaches to complex cleft types (Tessier 3), and complication prevention strategies. His work consistently bridges clinical innovation with practical applications in pediatric craniofacial reconstruction.

As faculty for the Utah Regional Education in Neurodevelopmental Leadership (URLEND) program and Medical Director of the Pediatric Dental Residency, he shapes future specialists through structured training. His craniofacial team at Primary Children’s Hospital integrates surgeons, dentists, orthodontists, and allied health professionals to deliver coordinated lifelong care from infancy through adolescence.