[New approach for cleft palate repair with one hemi-uvula preservation based on anatomical landmarks].

OBJECTIVE

To develop a method for reconstructing the distal soft palate in cleft closure using reproducible anatomical landmarks.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A total of 110 patients with congenital cleft lip and/or palate were included in two cohorts (53 and 57 patients). Each cohort was divided into three groups based on the surgical technique: Group 1 - anatomical landmark-based technique; Group 2 - Ivanov-Ageeva technique; Group 3 - traditional methods. Outcomes were assessed using a custom aesthetic scoring scale, parental satisfaction questionnaires, and measurements of operative time and intraoperative blood loss.

RESULTS

The landmark-based technique provided the best and most consistent aesthetic results. Surgeon-assigned aesthetic scores were 14/6±0.4 (Group 1), 12.3±0.9 (Group 2), and 8.8±1.2 (Group 3), p < 0.001. Operative time was shorter in Group 1 (155.1±29/4 min) than in Group 2 (197.5±33.8 min), p < 0.001. Parental satisfaction was also highest in Group 1 (4.77±0.44), p < 0.001.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating anatomical landmarks in cleft palate repair standardizes the surgical approach and significantly improves aesthetic and functional outcomes.