Abstract:
Summary
Introduction. Cleft lip and palate are the most common congenital
malformations in children. Although surgical methodologies have evolved over
the years, morphofunctional deficiencies in child development remain to be
adressed.
Objective
The impact of Congenital Cleft and Palate (CL/P) Malformations on
the Development of the Dentoalveolar And Dentomaxillary System.
Materials and Methods. A total of 15 children with congenital
malformations in the oromaxillofacial region including unilateral and bilateral
cleft lip and palate, were analyzed. All patients underwent staged surgical
treatment, initiated at the ages of 3, 5 and 6 months and completed by 32
months. The surgical protocol included primary repair of the upper lip and soft
palate at 12 months, followed by primary repair of the hard palate at 24 months.
Additionally, all children received speech therapy and orthopedic treatment.
A morphometric study was conducted on models of patiens with complete
unilateral and bilateral clefts in three planes and compared to models of healhy
children. Differences in maxillary growth were analyzed by examining occlusal
contacts, canine-level distances, molar level distances, and transverse
measurements from the canine to the proximal surface on the molar teeth.
Results. In children with unilateral clefts, occlusal contacts were 75%
efficient compared to 95% in healthy children.The maxillary growth difference
was reduced by 1-2cm compared to healthy individuals. In casses of bilateral
clefts, occlusal contact efficiency was 65% versus 95% children in healthy
children, while growth restrictions resulted in a maxillary reduction of 2-3cm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maxillary development is reduced in children with
unilateral clefts compared to healthy individuals, while those with bilateral
clefts, exhibit a severe growth restriction, both in comparison to healthy
children and those with unilateral clefts. These findings highlight the
necessityof an interdisciplinary management approach.