How to eliminate bilateral cleft lip stigmata 30 year experience.

PURPOSE: To report a surgical algorithm for the treatment of bilateral cleft lip stigmata.

METHODS

The investigators designs a retrospective study composed of patients with bilateral cleft lip stigmata. The surgical approach is on the basis of the severity of the deformity and of course the age of the patient. It consists in Simple scar revision with orbicularis muscle synthesis; Two dermal flaps tunneled in the central vermilion; Abbe flap. The investigators analyzes early and late complications, and performs the evaluation of the cosmetic appearance by a parent or patient himself/herself, a surgeon and a blinded third party observer.

RESULTS

The sample was composed of 351 patients. At short-term follow-up, viability of the flaps, function and morphology are good. At long-term follow-up, we observed significant improvement of the characteristics and profile of the patient's face and a normal function of the lips. We recorded a good scarring and a high satisfaction rate by evaluation of patients/ surgeon/ blinded third party observer.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that a surgical algorithm on the basis of the severity of the deformity and of course the age of the patient can represent an option of choice for most patients with bilateral cleft lip stigmata.

KEY WORDS: Abbe flap, Bilateral cleft lip stigmata, Cleft lip, Dermal flaps, Orbicularis muscles.