A Cephalometric Study of Lateral Morphologic Features in Adult Cleft Lip and Palate Patients

Chang, Ic Jun; Sohn, Woo Ill; Song, Jae Chul; Chin, Byung Rho

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cleft lip and palate deformity have unknown patterns of maxillofacial growth and development. The maxillofacial growth can be affected either by congenital or environmental factors such as infection and trauma. Surgical repair of cleft lip and palate may interfere the subsequent growth and development of maxillofacial region. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of maxillofacial growth patterns in adult cleft lip and palate patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The material for this study consisted of 17 adult male patients with cleft lip and palate. Cephalometric tracing and measurements were done by one investigator. The relationship between 17 cleft lip and palate patients and Korean norms were evaluated statistically.
RESULTS
There were statistically difference in Na, perpendicular to point A, SNA angle, effective maxillary length, maxillofacial differencial, Wit's appraisal and upper incisor to point A (p < 0.01). Pogonion to Na. perpendicular also statistically differed (p < 0.05). Other measurements didn't statistically differ.
CONCLUSION
It was evident that in adult cleft lip and palate patients, maxilla was retruded and short. Careful cleft lip and palate repair and treatment are recommended for facilitating normal growth of maxilla.