Craniofacial morphological outcome following treatment with three different surgical protocols for complete unilateral cleft lip and palate: a premilinary study

Does cleft lip and palate affect the severity of malocclusion?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the 3D anatomical features of unilateral (UCLP) and bilateral (BCLP) complete cleft lip and palate with those of skeletal Class III dentofacial deformities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 92 patients were divided into cleft and noncleft groups. The cleft group comprised 29 patients with UCLP and 17 patients with BCLP. The noncleft group comprised 46 patients with Class III dentofacial deformities. 3D anatomical landmarks were identified and the corresponding measurements were made on the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

RESULTS

The differences between the affected and unaffected sides of the patients with UCLP were nonsignificant. The differences between the patients with UCLP and BCLP were nonsignificant except for the SNA angle. Significant differences between the patients with clefts and Class III malocclusion were identified for the SNA, A-N perpendicular, and A-N Pog line, indicating that the maxillae of the patients in the cleft group were more retrognathic and micrognathic. Relative to the noncleft group patients, the cleft group patients had a significantly smaller ramus height.

CONCLUSION

The affected and unaffected sides of the patients with UCLP did not exhibit significant differences. The maxillae of the patients with UCLP were significantly more retrognathic than those of the patients with BCLP. The maxillae and mandibles of the patients in the cleft group were more micrognathic and retropositioned relative to those of the noncleft Class III patients.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The maxillary and mandibular findings indicated greater deficiencies in the patients with UCLP or BCLP than in those with skeletal Class III malocclusion. Appropriate surgical design should be administered.

Prognostic Factors for Orthognathic Surgery in Children With Cleft Lip and/or Palate: Dentition and Palatal Morphology

To determine dental and palatal morphology in children with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) and identify morphological prognostic factors for orthognathic surgery (OGS).

Retrospective cohort study.

Orthodontic department of a university dental hospital.

This study included 80 patients with bilateral and unilateral CL/P who had lateral cephalograms at the ages of 7 (T1), 15 (T2) years, and a dental plaster model at T1.

Plaster models at T1 were scanned with a three-dimensional (3D) scanner. Morphological features were extracted from 3D models with geometric morphometrics software as principal components (PCs). The combinations of the PCs and other predictive factors (ie, the No. of clefts in the lip and alveolus, the palatal repair method, sex, cephalometric variables at T1, and the No. of missing teeth) were examined by logistic regression to determine the predictability for OGS. The need for OGS and skeletal and dental discrepancies at T2 were examined as outcomes.

Shrinkage of the palate, including vertical shallowing and transverse narrowing of the posterior maxilla and cleft-side asymmetry of the anterior maxilla at T1, as well as the No. of clefts in the lip and alveolus, the palatal repair method, male sex, several cephalometric variables for the sagittal and vertical dimensions, and the No. of missing teeth, were found to be predictive factors for OGS.

Morphological prognostic factors for OGS in children with CL/P were determined.

A comparison of maxillofacial growth in Chinese children with isolated cleft palate treated with two different palatoplasty techniques without relaxing incisions: a preliminary study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the maxillofacial growth of patients with isolated cleft palate following the Sommerlad-Furlow modified technique and compare it with the effect of the Sommerlad technique.

STUDY DESIGN

A Retrospective Cohort Study.

METHODS

A total of 90 participants, 60 patients with non-syndromic isolated soft and hard cleft palate (ISHCP) underwent primary palatoplasty without relaxing incision (30 patients received the Sommerlad-Furlow modified (S-F) technique and 30 received Sommerlad (S) technique). While the other 30 were healthy noncleft participants with skeletal class I pattern (C group). All participants had lateral cephalometric radiographs at least 5 years old age. All the study variables were measured by using stable landmarks, including 11 linear and 9 angular variants.

RESULTS

The means age at collection of cephalograms were 6.03 ± 0.80 (5-7 yrs) in the S group, 5.96 ± 0.76 (5-7 yrs) in the S-F group, and 5.91 ± 0.87 (5-7 yrs) in the C group. Regarding cranial base, the results showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the three groups in S-N and S-N-Ba. The S group had a significantly shortest S-Ba than the S-F & C groups (P = 0.01), but there was no statistically significant difference between S-F and C groups (P = 0.80). Regarding skeletal maxillary growth, the S group had significantly shorter Co-A, S- PM and significantly less SNA angle than the C group (P =  < 0.01). While there was no significant difference between S-F & C groups (P = 0.42). The S group had significantly more MP-SN inclination than the C group (P =  < 0.01). Regarding skeletal mandibular growth, there were no statistically significant differences in all linear and angular mandibular measurements between the three groups, except Co-Gn of the S group had a significantly shorter length than the C group (P = 0.05). Regarding intermaxillary relation, the S-F group had no significant differences in Co-Gn-Co-A and ANB as compared with the C group. The S group had significantly less ANB angle than S-F & C groups (P = 0.01 & P =  < 0.01). In addition, there were no significant differences in all angular occlusal measurements between the three groups.

CONCLUSION

As a preliminary report, Sommerlad-Furlow modified technique showed that maxillary positioning in the face tended to be better, and the intermaxillary relationship was more satisfactory than that in Sommerlad technique when compared them in healthy noncleft participants.

Growth Outcomes Audit for Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (UCLP) After 2-stage Palate Repair

PURPOSE

To assess the impact of 1 and 2-stage palatoplasty protocol on the dental arch relationships in unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) in a single center.

METHODS

Our study consisted of 349 individuals divided into 2 groups according to the palatoplasty protocol. Two-stage group comprised 169 subjects with UCLP (mean age: 6.9 y, 110 male and 59 female) who underwent lip, nasal ala, and anterior palate repair with vomer flap from 3 to 6 months (first surgery stage). Soft palate repair occurred from 12 to 18 months (second surgery stage). The one-stage group comprised 180 subjects with UCLP (mean age: 7.2 y, 108 male and 72 female) who underwent 1-stage palatoplasty. Dental models were evaluated by 3 experienced orthodontists applying Goslon Yardstick and the 5-year-old index (FYOI). The influence of the palatoplasty technique and surgeon factor on the interarch relationship was evaluated. The weighted Kappa was used to assess intraexaminer and interexaminer agreements for comparisons of dental arch relationships. Intergroup comparisons were conducted using the χ 2 test ( P <0.05).

RESULTS

The intraexaminer reliability was very good (0.81 to 0.98) and interexaminer reliability varied from satisfactory to very good (0.56 to 0.83). The mean occlusal index of the 2-stage and 1-stage groups was 2.77 and 3.03, respectively. The variability of the mean index between surgeons varied from 2.38 to 3.2 in the 2-stage group and 2.91 to 3.2 in the 1-stage group. There were significant differences in the frequency of Goslon 5 index ( P =0.002) between groups, with the 2-stage group presenting less cases (1.18%) than the group 1-stage (11.11%).

CONCLUSION

The interarch relationship was similar for both palate repair protocols. Two-stage palatoplasty showed a decreased prevalence of Goslon index 5.

Influence of Lip Revision Surgery on Facial Growth in Patients With A Cleft Lip

Although patients with cleft lip and palate often present with poor maxillary growth because of intrinsic and iatrogenic factors, the surgical influence of lip revision surgery, palatal fistula repair, and pharyngeal flap procedures remains uncertain in contrast to that of primary cleft lip repair and palatoplasty. Therefore, this study aimed to reveal factors inhibiting maxillary growth and inducing later orthognathic surgery. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of patients with cleft lip and palate who underwent a series of treatments at Keio University Hospital from 1990 to 2000. We collected data on patient sex, cleft type, number and timing of lip revision surgery, the incidence of palatal fistulae, history of pharyngeal flap procedures, and timing of a repeat bone graft, and reviewed whether these patients underwent orthognathic surgery later in life. Multivariate analysis was conducted using binary logistic regression to extract factors affecting later orthognathic surgery. A total of 52 patients were included in this study. Results showed that revision surgery conducted more than twice was the highest statistically significant predictor of later orthognathic surgery in patients with a cleft lip and palate ( P <0.05, odds ratio=43.3), followed by palatal fistula occurrence after cleft palate repair ( P <0.05, odds ratio=22.3). Therefore, primary surgical procedure is most important for these patients.

Comparison of long-term skeletal stability following maxillary advancement using rigid external distraction in growing and non-growing patients with cleft lip and palate: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the long-term skeletal stability following maxillary advancement using Rigid External Distraction (RED) in growing and non-growing patients with Cleft Lip and Palate (CLP).

METHODS

Data sources: A systematic literature search was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines from database inception till August 2020 in MEDLINE-PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Science Direct, Google Scholar and a manual search in the institutional library. Study eligibility criteria, participants and intervention: All available literature published in English, with a minimum of six human subjects with well-defined age range either 7-14.9 years or 15-30 years, follow up period of a minimum of 12 months assessing the skeletal stability as horizontal change at Point A (Subspinale) following maxillary advancement using a RED device, without the use of rigid internal fixation or bone grafts were included in the study. Study appraisal and synthesis method: The quality assessment of selected articles was done using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The meta-analysis was carried out with Q statistic method, I-squared statistics, fixed-effect model to estimate pooled mean and Begg-Mazumdar bias indicator.

RESULTS

Selected nine articles that were qualitatively assessed for relapse rate following maxillary advancement using a RED device, showed consistent and stable results. The meta-analysis found no significant difference in long-term skeletal stability of maxillary advancement by RED device in growing and non-growing patients with CLP [(growing group: Pooled proportion = 0.2927; 95% CI = 0.1534 to 0.4319) (non-growing group: Pooled proportion = 0.23077; 95% CI = 0.09854 to 0.36300)].

LIMITATIONS

No study, as revealed by the search, was available that compared the two groups as defined by the inclusion criteria. Data for the two groups were retrieved from different studies and meta-analysed.

CONCLUSION

RED is an effective modality for correction of maxillary hypoplasia secondary to CLP, requiring large maxillary advancement. The technique can be used in young and adult patients with similar long-term results.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020205513.

Superior Orbicularis Oris Muscle Activity in Children Surgically Treated for Bilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the electromyographic activity of the superior orbicularis oris muscle both in children surgically treated for bilateral complete cleft lip and palate (BCCLP) as well as in subjects without BCCLP. The study comprised 77 children aged 6.6 to 12.5 years. All the patients with clefts had previously undergone lip and palate surgery. The upper lip electromyographic (EMG) assessments were made with a DAB-Bluetooth device (Zebris Medical GmbH, Germany) at rest, while swallowing saliva, protruding lips and compressing lips. EMG measurements were also made when the subjects produced phonemes /p/, /b/, and /m/ with the vowel /a/. The Mann-Whitney U test was applied to statistically analyze the EMG values. Significantly higher median upper lip EMG activity under working conditions such as swallowing saliva, lip compression, and production of the phoneme /p/ with the vowel /a/ was observed in patients with BCCLP compared to those without a cleft. The results of the study showed that the upper lip muscle activity increases in children with BCCLP when swallowing saliva, compressing lips and during some speech movement tasks. This may be important in the aspect of the effect of surgical lip repair on the craniofacial growth.

Evaluation of fistula rates in three cleft palate techniques without relaxing incisions

The aim of the present study was to investigate the incidence of postoperative fistula formation from a hybrid cleft palate repair compared to that from two well-established techniques. We performed a modified technique, Sommerlad-Furlow (SF), which combined the repositioning of the levator veli palatini muscles as described by Sommerlad with the double opposing Z-plasty of Furlow to lengthen the soft palate. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate patients who underwent cleft palate repair utilizing SF, Sommerlad, or Furlow techniques with the incidence of palatal fistula as the target endpoint. A total of 1,164 patients were included in the present study and underwent the following techniques: 603 cases with SF, 244 cases with Furlow, and 317 cases with Sommerlad. In addition to not requiring relaxing incisions, SF advantages included a consistently lower fistula rate compared to that of the Sommerlad technique, as well as the lowest fistula rate in patients with both hard and soft palate clefts without a cleft lip (OR:2.62 95% CI: 1.35, 5.09). However, the differences among the three techniques did not reach statistical significance in terms of a bilateral or unilateral cleft lip/palate, or in patients with a soft palate only or a submucosal cleft palate(OR: 2.22,95% CI:0.77, 6.37). Based on the results of our study, the Somerlad-Furlow technique should be preferred whenever possible.

Speech of Patients With Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate: Comparison of Three Different Surgical Protocols for Primary Repair

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Between 1997 and 2014, 3 protocols have been used in out cleft unit for primary repair of unilateral cleft lip and palate. During the Scandcleft randomized controlled trial closing the soft palate and lip at 4 months and the hard palate at 12 months (Protocol 1) was compared with closing the entire palate at 12 months (Protocol 2). Protocol 3 comprises closure of the lip and hard palate with a vomer flap at 4 months and the soft palate at 10 months. The purpose of this study was to compare subsequent velopharyngeal competence at age of 3 and 5 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study consisted of 160 non-syndromatic patients with a unilateral cleft lip and palate. Protocol 3 was retrospectively compared with Protocols 1 and 2 within the previously published Scandcleft study.

RESULTS

At 3 years of age, normal or borderline competent velopharyngeal function was found in 68% of patients in Protocol 1, 74% of patients in Protocol 2, and 72% of patients in Protocol 3. At 5 years of age, the corresponding figures were 84%, 82%, and 92%. 21% of patients in Protocol 1, 4% in Protocol 2, and 23% in Protocol 3 had palatal reoperations before the age of 5 years.

CONCLUSION

No significant differences emerged in velopharyngeal competence at age 3 years between the 3 protocols. Palatal reoperations were performed earlier in patient groups 1 and 3, explaining the difference in the velopharyngeal competence rate at the 5-year time-point.

Lessons from American Board of Plastic Surgery Maintenance of Certification Tracer Data: A 16-Year Review of Clinical Practice Patterns and Evidence-Based Medicine in Cleft Palate Repair

BACKGROUND

As a component of the Maintenance of Certification process from 2003 to 2019, the American Board of Plastic Surgery tracked 20 common plastic surgery operations. By evaluating the data collected over 16 years, the authors are able to examine the practice patterns of pediatric/craniofacial surgeons in the United States.

METHODS

Cumulative tracer data for cleft palate repair was reviewed as of April of 2014 and September of 2019. Evidence-based medicine articles were reviewed. Results were tabulated in three categories: pearls, or topics that were covered in both the tracer data and evidence-based medicine articles; topics that were covered by evidence-based medicine articles but not collected in the tracer data; and topics that were covered in tracer data but not addressed in evidence-based medicine articles.

RESULTS

Two thousand eight hundred fifty cases had been entered as of September of 2019. With respect to pearls, pushback, von Langenbeck, and Furlow repairs all declined in use, whereas intravelar veloplasty increased. For items not in the tracer, the quality of studies relating to analgesia is among the highest of all areas of study regarding cleft palate repair. In terms of variables collected by the tracer but not studied, in 2019, 41 percent of patients received more than 1 day of antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

This article provides a review of cleft palate tracer data and summarizes the research in the field. Review of the tracer data enables cleft surgeons to compare their outcomes to national norms and provides an opportunity for them to consider modifications that may enhance their practice.

Modified two-flaps palatoplasty with lateral mucus relaxing incision in cleft repair: A STROBE-compliant retrospective study

STUDY DESIGN

clinical results of A STROBE-compliant retrospective study OBJECTIVE:: To achieving adequate pharyngeal closure and improve the pharyngeal function by a modified two-flap palatoplasty.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND

Excessive tension in soft palate is the main factor causing the dysphonia after cleft palate. The tension-free suture of the soft palate is the key to achieving adequate pharyngeal closure. In this paper, a modified two-flap palatoplasty improved the pharyngeal function METHODS:: From August 2016 to December 2017, 20 patients with cleft palate were treated with a modified two-flap palatoplasty of the posterolateral symmetrical mucosal relaxation incision. The mucosal relaxation incision was performed on both posterolateral sides of the soft palate.

RESULTS

All cases had good healing of mucosal flap and the palate. All patients underwent endoscopic examination at 6 months after operation. The postoperative results were satisfactory, with no complications. Twelve patients had bilateral exudative otitis media before operation, 4 patients returned to normal postoperatively, and 8 patients underwent bilateral tympanic membrane catheterization; 2 patients had abnormal function of bilateral eustachian tube before operation and returned to normal postoperatively; 3 patients had unilateral exudative otitis media before operation, and all of them returned to normal; the acoustic impedance test was normal in 3 children before operation. Most children begin to learn to speak, parents are satisfied with their pronunciation, and 3 children are in speech rehabilitation due to unclear pronunciation.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose a technique to improve the function of the velopharyngeal closure which effectively reduces the incidence of pharyngeal insufficiency and occurrence of operative correction of pharyngeal closure dysfunction. The modifed two-flap palatoplasty with posterior lateral symmetric mucosal relaxation incision is beneficial for better velopharyngeal closure.

Influence of vomer flap on craniofacial growth in patients with cleft lip and palate: A systematic review

The aim of this review was to evaluate the impact of the vomer flap on craniofacial growth in patients with cleft lip and palate. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist and is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO - CRD42018095714). Two investigators performed the research using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases for studies published until November 2018. The focused question was 'Does the vomer flap have a lesser impact on craniofacial growth in patients with cleft lip and palate?'. A total of 13 articles was selected for this review, comparing the vomer flap technique with other flap surgery techniques. The outcomes analyzed were: facial development (primary outcome); and the growth of the maxilla and mandible, occlusion, occurrence of fistula, and speech development (secondary outcomes). It was concluded that there is no difference in impact between vomer flap and the other flap surgery techniques on craniofacial development.

Maxillary Growth in Cleft Lip and Palate Patients, With and Without Vomerine Flap Closure of the Hard Palate at the Time of Lip Repair: A Retrospective Analysis of Prospectively Collected Nonrandomized Data, With 10-Year Cephalometric Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To assess the midterm effect on maxillary growth of vomerine flap (VF) closure of the hard palate, at the time of lip repair.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected nonrandomized data.

INTERVENTIONS

Consecutive participants with a unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) were operated on, at 3 months of age, by the same surgeon. They were divided into 2 groups, those who had a VF and those who did not (non-VF).

SETTING

Participants were treated at 2 hospitals in the United Kingdom.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-eight participants in the VF group and 24 participants in the non-VF group attended follow-up at 10 years of age.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Standardized lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken at 10 years. Following tracing and digitization, parameters to assess the maxillary growth were analyzed.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were found in the anterior-posterior or vertical skeletal cephalometric parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study support the statement that VF repair does not significantly affect maxillary growth in patients with a UCLP, when assessed cephalometrically at 10 years of age. It should be noted that at this age, growth is not yet complete.

Treatment Outcome of Bangladeshi UCLP Patients Based on Both Phenotype and Postnatal Treatment Factors using Modified Huddart Bodenham (mHB) Index

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the dental arch relationship (DAR) of nonsyndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and to explore the various phenotype and postnatal treatment factors that are responsible for poor DAR.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

School of Dental Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia.

SUBJECTS

Eighty-four Bangladeshi children with nonsyndromic UCLP who received cheiloplasty and palatoplasty.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Dental models were taken at 5 to 12 years of age (man: 7.69), and dental arch relationships were assessed using modified Huddart/Bodenham index (mHB) by two raters. Kappa statistics was used to evaluate the intra- and interexaminer agreements, chi-square was used to assess the associations, and logistic regression analysis was used to explore the responsible factors that affect DAR.

RESULTS

The total mHB score (mean [SD]) was -8.261 (7.115). Intra- and interagreement was very good. Using crude and stepwise backward regression analysis, significant association was found between positive history of class III (P = .025, P = .030, respectively) and unfavorable DAR. Complete UCLP (P = .003) was also significantly correlated with unfavorable DAR.

CONCLUSION

This multivariate study suggested complete type of UCLP and positive history of class III had a significantly unfavorable effect on the DAR.

Electromyographic analysis of superior orbicularis oris muscle function in children surgically treated for unilateral complete cleft lip and palate

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the electrical activity of the superior orbicularis oris muscle in children surgically treated for unilateral complete cleft lip and palate (UCCLP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The sample comprised 45 patients 6.38-12.68 years of age with UCCLP and 40 subjects 6.61-11.71 years of age with no clefts. Electromyographical (EMG) recordings were taken with a DAB-Bluetooth Instrument (Zebris Medical GmbH, Germany) in the rest position and during saliva swallowing, lip protrusion and reciprocal compression of the lips, as well as while producing the phonemes /p/, /b/, and /m/ combined with the vowel /a/.

RESULTS

The electrical activity of the upper lip during saliva swallowing and lip compression was significantly greater in the cleft group. Similar resting level activity was observed in both groups. During the production of the /p/, /b/, and /m/ phonemes combined with the vowel /a/ the results showed no significant differences in the EMG activity between children with UCCLP and noncleft subjects.

CONCLUSION

Patients with UCCLP have abnormal upper lip function characterized by increased activity of the superior orbicularis oris muscle during saliva swallowing and lip compression, and this may affect facial morphology.

Cleft Palate Repair without Lateral Relaxing Incision

Background:

The goals of successful palate repair include optimization of speech and feeding, avoidance of fistula formation, and mitigation of adverse maxillary growth. However, the effects of scar formation on maxillary growth have not been discussed in detail.

Methods:

Between November 2010 and December 2011, the palateplasty was performed for 24 patients with cleft palate (median age, 12 months; range, 11–18 months). In the velum, a symmetrical intravelar veloplasty with mucosal Z-plasty was performed on both the nasal and oral sides. In the hard palate, instead of lateral relaxing incisions, a 1-line mucoperiosteal incision along the cleft margins was designed with subperiosteal undermining in the entire palatine bone. The palatal mucoperiosteum was sutured together in the middle of the cleft, and the cleft was directly closed without lateral relaxing incisions. The patients were monitored for 6 months to 1.6 years.

Results:

None of the cases had issues concerning flap viability, and all palate repairs healed well. Postoperative results were satisfactory, without any complications such as dehiscence, perforation, or palatal fistula.

Conclusions:

The method presented in this article was effective, with successful palatal closure and without scar formation or mucosal defects along the alveolus. We conclude that minimum contracture of the hard palate was useful for not only mitigating adverse maxillary growth but also for orthodontics.

Evolution of my philosophy in the treatment of unilateral cleft lip and palate

At the end of 50-year-long clinical activity, the evolution of my approach to the treatment of unilateral cleft of the lip and palate is discussed. I had several teachers in this field (Rusconi, Reherman, Perko, Delaire, Talmant, Sommerlad and others) and I introduced in my approach what I considered to be improvements from all of them. My current protocol is related to the anatomy of the cleft: for wide clefts a two-stage protocol is applied (1° step: soft palate and lip and nose repair; 2° step: hard palate repair with gingivoalveoloplasty); for narrow cleft (less than 1 cm at the posterior border of hard palate) an "all in one" protocol is performed with or without gingivoalveoloplasty (in accordance to the presence or absence of contact between the stumps at alveolar level). The most important details regarding surgery of the lip and palate are discussed. Robust data collection on speech and skeletal growth is still needed to determine whether the "all in one" approach can be validated as the treatment of choice for unilateral complete lip and palate cleft in selected cases.

Evaluation of 5-year-old children with complete cleft lip and palate: Multicenter study. Part 2: Functional results

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cleft surgery is marked by all the controversies and the multiplication of protocols, as it has been shown by the Eurocleft study. The objective of this pilot study is to start a comparison and analyzing procedure between primary surgical protocols in French centers.

METHODS

Four French centers with different primary surgical protocols for cleft lip and palate repair, have accepted to be involved in this retrospective study. In each center, 20 consecutive patients with complete cleft lip and palate (10 UCLP, 10 BCLP per center), non syndromic, have been evaluated at a mean age of 5 [range, 4-6]. In this second part, maxillary growth and palatine morphology were assessed on clinical examination and on dental casts (Goslon score). Speech was also evaluated clinically (Borel-maisonny classification) and by Aerophonoscope.

RESULTS

Veau-Wardill-Killner palatoplasty involves a higher rate of transversal maxillary deficiency and retromaxillary. The fistula rate is statistically lower with tibial periosteum graft hard palate closure but this technique seems to give retromaxillary. Malek and Talmant two-stage-palatoplasty techniques reach Goslon scores of 1 or 2. Considering speech, Sommerlad intravelar veloplasty got higher outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary results. Extension to other centers required. The two-stage palatoplasty, including a Sommerlad intravelar veloplasty seems to have the less negative impact on maxillary growth, and to give good speech outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study. Level III/retrospective multicenter comparative study.

Management of post midface distraction occlusal discrepancy using temporary anchorage devices in a cleft patient

Open bite deformity following a successful midface advancement by distraction osteogenesis is a common complication. Temporary anchorage devices can be deployed during the distraction and post-distraction settling phases for restoring the occlusion even in severe cases. The following report describes the management of severe anterior open bite following maxillary distraction.

Influence of different palate repair protocols on facial growth in unilateral complete cleft lip and palate

OBJECTIVE

To address the question of whether one- or two-stage palatal treatment protocol has fewer detrimental effects on craniofacial growth in patients aged 5 years with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients with non-syndromic unilateral complete cleft lip and palate (UCCLPs) who had received primary cleft lip repair at age 6-12 months and cleft palate repair at age 18-30 months were selected in this study. Eighteen UCCLP patients who received two-stage palate repair were selected as group 1, and 22 UCCLP patients who received one-stage palate repair were selected as group 2. The control group consisted of 20 patients with unilateral incomplete cleft lip (UICL patients) whose age and gender matched with UCCLP patients. A one-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to analyze the nature of data distribution. Bonferroni test and Kruskal-Wallis H tests were used for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

Both case groups showed reduced maxillary sagittal length (ANS-PMP, A-PM, p < 0.05) and retrusion of the maxilla (S-Ptm, p < 0.05), A point and ANS point (Ba-N-A, Ba-N-ANS, p < 0.05). Patients treated with two-stage palate repair had a reduced posterior maxillary vertical height (R-PMP, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that maxillary sagittal length and position could be perturbed by both one- and two-stage palate repair. Vomer flap repair inhibited maxilla vertical growth. Delayed hard palate repair showed less detrimental effects on maxillary growth compared to early hard palate repair in UCCLP patients aged 5 years.

Primary correction of nasal asymmetry in patients with unilateral coronal synostosis

BACKGROUND

The optimal strategy for correction of significant nasal angulation in patients with unilateral coronal synostosis remains controversial. The authors report a novel technique for correction of significant nasal angulation in these patients, in which dissection of the nasal bones is limited to the site of the osteotomy, maintaining continuity with the soft-tissue envelope and the nasal cartilages.

METHODS

Seven successive patients with unilateral coronal synostosis and nasal deviation of greater than 6 degrees by computed tomographic analysis were evaluated. Three patients were treated using ex vivo repositioning in which the nasal bones were freed completely from the surrounding soft-tissue envelope, and four patients were treated with in vivo repositioning by performing a subperiosteal dissection only where required for lateral nasal osteotomies without separating the nasal bones from the cartilaginous framework of the nose. Nasal angulation was calculated using clinical photographs and three-dimensional computed tomography preoperatively and at 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Mean nasal angulation was reduced from 9.5 degrees to 2.5 degrees by computed tomographic analysis (p<0.001) and from 6.9 degrees to 1.9 degrees by photographic analysis (p<0.01) 1 year postoperatively. There was no significant difference in outcome between patients who underwent ex vivo or in vivo repositioning.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary surgical correction of significant nasal angulation in patients with unilateral coronal synostosis can be achieved with less dissection and disruption of soft-tissue relationships than previously described without compromise in efficacy. The authors' technique for osteotomy of the nasal bones preserves nasal architecture, minimizes periosteal dissection, and may theoretically reduce the potential for growth disruption.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Speech outcome in complete unilateral cleft lip and palate - a comparison of three methods of the hard palate closure

The aim of this study was to compare the speech in subjects with cleft lip and palate, in whom three methods of the hard palate closure were used. One hundred and thirty-seven children (96 boys, 41 girls; mean age = 12 years, SD = 1·2) with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (CUCLP) operated by a single surgeon with a one-stage method were evaluated. The management of the cleft lip and soft palate was comparable in all subjects; for hard palate repair, three different methods were used: bilateral von Langenbeck closure (b-vL group, n = 39), unilateral von Langenbeck closure (u-vL group, n = 56) and vomerplasty (v-p group, n = 42). Speech was assessed: (i) perceptually for the presence of a) hypernasality, b) compensatory articulations (CAs), c) audible nasal air emissions (ANE) and d) speech intelligibility; (ii) for the presence of compensatory facial grimacing, (iii) with clinical intra-oral evaluation and (iv) with videonasendoscopy. A total rate of hypernasality requiring pharyngoplasty was 5·1%; total incidence post-oral compensatory articulations (CAs) was 2·2%. The overall speech intelligibility was good in 84·7% of cases. Oronasal fistulas (ONFs) occurred in 15·7% b-vL subjects, 7·1% u-vL subjects and 50% v-p subjects (P < 0·001). No statistically significant intergroup differences for hypernasality, CAs and intelligibility were found (P > 0·1). In conclusion, the speech after early one-stage repair of CUCLP was satisfactory. The method of hard palate repair affected the incidence of ONFs, which, however, caused relatively mild and inconsistent speech errors.

Hard palate-repair technique and facial growth in patients with cleft lip and palate: a systematic review

The vomer flap technique for repair of the hard palate is assumed to improve maxillary growth because it causes less scarring in growth-sensitive areas of the palate. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effect of techniques using the vomer flap compared with the palatal flap on facial growth in patients with cleft lip and palate. All papers published before 21 July 2012 were sought in the databases PubMed and MEDLINE. Search terms included "facial growth", "cleft lip and palate", "palatal repair technique", and "vomer flap". Additional studies were identified by hand searching the reference lists of the papers retrieved from the electronic search. Two independent reviewers assessed the eligibility of studies for inclusion, extracted the data, and assessed the quality of the methods. Six studies met the selection criteria. Outcomes assessed in 4 studies were dentofacial morphology after vomer or palatal flap, maxillary dental arch in 1 study, and dental arch relations in 2 studies. The quality of the methods used in 3 studies was poor. Contradictory results and a lack of high-quality and long-term outcomes of reviewed studies provided no conclusive scientific evidence about whether the vomer flap technique has more or less of an adverse effect on maxillary growth than the palatal flap. Further well-designed, well-controlled, and long-term studies particularly of the vomer flap (2-stage) and palatal flap (von Langenbeck or two-flap, 1-stage) are needed.

Early hard palate closure using a vomer flap in unilateral cleft lip and palate: effects on cleft width

OBJECTIVES

Although no universal consensus exists on treatment of cleft palates, early hard palate closure is commonly performed. The aim of the present study was to determine the influence of a vomer flap for early hard palate closure on residual palatal cleft width in patients with a unilateral complete cleft lip and palate (UCLP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven UCLP patients were retrospectively divided into two groups. Group A consisted of 25 patients who underwent early lip closure and simultaneous hard palate closure using a vomer flap. Group B included 22 patients who had lip closure only at first surgery. Palatal cleft widths of both groups were measured at two time points and were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test to examine the influence of vomerplasty in this very early stage.

RESULTS

No significant difference of baseline characteristics between the groups was found, and comparison of age at the time of surgeries was not significantly different. Mean age at the time of vomerplasty was 4.0 months. After the first surgery, a significantly greater total cleft width reduction of 5.0 mm average was found in group A compared to only 1.5 mm reduction in group B. This reduction took place after an average of 7.1 and 7.0 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Lip closure accompanied by early hard palate closure using a vomer flap is associated with a significant postoperative reduction of the residual cleft when compared to lip closure only.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study shows another great advantage of performing early hard palate closure using a vomer flap.

Evaluation of a 3D Stereophotogrammetric Technique to Measure the Stone Casts of Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Objective

To assess a three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric method for palatal cast digitization of children with unilateral cleft lip and palate.

Design

As part of a collaboration between the University of Milan (Italy) and the University CES of Medellin (Colombia), 96 palatal cast models obtained from neonatal patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate were obtained and digitized using a three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric imaging system.

Main Outcome Measures

Three-dimensional measurements (cleft width, depth, length) were made separately for the longer and shorter cleft segments on the digital dental cast surface between landmarks, previously marked. Seven linear measurements were computed. Systematic and random errors between operators' tracings, and accuracy on geometric objects of known size were calculated. In addition, mean measurements from three-dimensional stereophotographs were compared statistically with those from direct anthropometry.

Results

The three-dimensional method presented good accuracy error (<0.9%) on measuring geometric objects. No systematic errors between operators' measurements were found ( p > .05). Statistically significant differences ( p < 5%) were noted for different methods (caliper versus stereophotogrammetry) for almost all distances analyzed, with mean absolute difference values ranging between 0.22 and 3.41 mm. Therefore, rates for the technical error of measurement and relative error magnitude were scored as moderate for Ag-Am and poor for Ag-Pg and Am-Pm distances. Generally, caliper values were larger than three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric values.

Conclusions

Three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric systems have some advantages over direct anthropometry, and therefore the method could be sufficiently precise and accurate on palatal cast digitization with unilateral cleft lip and palate. This would be useful for clinical analyses in maxillofacial, plastic, and aesthetic surgery.

Microvascular tissue transfer in cleft palate patients: advocacy of the prelaminated radial free forearm flap

The closure of wide palatal clefts and recurrent oronasal fistulae may be challenging. After repeated failure of conventional techniques, microvascular tissue transfer may be indicated in the closure of such fistulae. Depending on the location and the size of the palatal fistula, different tissues are required to sufficiently close the palatal gaps. A subdivision of common flaps into mucosa, muscular, bony, skin, and fascia flaps was carried out to analyze their suitability for alveolar, hard, and soft palate reconstruction. Furthermore, the bulk of flaps and the length of the vascular pedicle were analyzed to rate the suitability of different flaps for palatal closure. Based on a new classification of oronasal fistulae, all these factors were taken into consideration to introduce a decision guidance of what microvascular flap fits a particular clinical situation. The radial free forearm flap was found to be sufficient in the closure of all classes of oronasal fistulae.

Traumatic palatal perforation after orotracheal intubation: a case report and a review of the literature

In this report, we describe an unusual case of a traumatic palatal perforation caused by orotracheal intubation. The paucity of reports of palatal perforation resulting from intubation in the literature suggests that it is a rare occurrence. However, recognizing this potential complication and managing the airway appropriately may reduce patient morbidity.

Speech outcomes in 10-year-old children with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate after one-stage lip and palate repair in the first year of life

An evaluation of the results of one-stage repair of unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) performed at the Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland, has shown that the dentofacial outcomes are comparable with those of the best cleft centres. The aim of this study was to assess speech development after one-stage closure of UCLP. Twenty boys and eight girls at the mean age 9.6 years consecutively treated with one-stage closure of the cleft at the mean age of 8.8 (range, 6-13) months were included. The same surgeon performed palatal repair using a vomerplasty. The evaluated outcomes included (1) perceptual speech evaluations with assessment of hypernasality, audible nasal emissions (ANEs) and compensatory articulations, (2) evaluation of compensatory facial grimacing, (3) clinical intraoral evaluation and (4) videonasendoscopy when indicated. Our results demonstrated that 25 patients (89.3%) had normal nasal resonance. Severe hypernasality and compensatory articulation disorders caused by velopharyngeal insufficiency were assessed in one patient. In 13 patients (46.4%), oronasal fistulas were found. Two children (7%) with larger fistulas presented with mild hypernasality. In 11 cases (39.2%), fistula friction was heard at pronunciation of some anterior sounds. Ten children (35.7%) demonstrated compensatory facial grimacing, mostly inconsistent and mild, in the form of nasal valving. In conclusion, articulation development, velopharyngeal sphincter competence and incidence of compensatory articulations in our sample are satisfactory. However, only 54% of the present groups were rated as having entirely normal speech because of high incidences of anterior palatal fistulas, and mild but frequent fistula-related speech disturbances.

Sagittal maxillary growth in children with unilateral cleft of the lip, alveolus and palate at the age of 10 years: an intercentre comparison

OBJECTIVE

Aim of this intercentre study was to compare sagittal facial growth in children with unilateral cleft lip and palate treated with different surgical protocols. A first evaluation had been carried out at the age of 6 years, now the patients have been re-evaluated at the age of 10 years.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

22 patients had been analyzed in centre 1, 32 patients in centre 2. All patients had presurgical orthopaedics. Centre 1 had lip repair at the age of 3 months and one-stage palatal closure with 1 year. Centre 2 had lip repair with 6 months, soft palate repair at 12 and hard palate repair at the age of 30 months. Sagittal growth was evaluated on lateral cephalograms. As control, data of 35 non-cleft children were used. Statistical analysis was carried out with student's t-test, multiple comparisons with Bonferroni.

RESULTS

There was considerably normal sagittal facial growth in centre 1, with tendency of forward growth of the mandible. In centre 2 there was a slight decrease in sagittal maxillary and mandibular growth with unchanged intergnathic relation. There was no statistically significant difference in sagittal growth between the centres. A re-evaluation has to be carried out after the final growth spurt.