Evaluation of Midface Deficiency in Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip-Palate

Method: There were two groups (n=67, 45 males and 22 females) in this study. UCLP group consisted of 34 patients (23 males and 11 females, mean age of 14.1 years) and control group consisted of 33 patients (22 males and 11 females, mean age of 14.3 years) with no cleft formation and have skeletal Class I relationship and normal growth pattern. The groups were matched on age and sex. The skeletal characteristics and midface deficiency were evaluated on cephalograms. Thirty six different cephalometric parameters were measured. For statistical analysis, Mann-Whitney U test were used at p<0.05 level.

Result: In the UCLP group, sagittal growth of the maxilla (SNA angle, A to N﬩FH, A-VR distance, effective midface size), lower face height, posterior face height, ramus height, SNB angle were less than in the control group (p<0.05). UCLP group exhibited significant vertical growth patterns compared to control group. Cheek bone was retrusive significantly in the UCLP group (p<0.05). Vertical midface measurements did not differ significantly between UCLP patients and controls.

Conclusion:

 The UCLP patients presented midface and maxillary deficiency in horizontal dimensions and significantly reduced malar support in comparison to the control group.