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Comparative study between children with and without cleft lip and cleft palate, part 1: cephalometric analysis
C Zúñiga1, R Miralles, R Carvajal
1Biomedical Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago.
Summary
Children operated for cleft lip and palate showed more head extension and forward cervical spine position compared to controls. These craniofacial changes were linked to increased lower facial height.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Craniofacial Development
Background:
- Cleft lip and palate (CLP) significantly impact craniofacial development.
- Post-surgical outcomes in CLP patients require continuous evaluation.
- Understanding cervical spine alignment is crucial for comprehensive craniofacial assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare craniofacial relationships, cervical spine position, and curvature in operated CLP children versus controls.
- To investigate potential correlations between craniofacial morphology and cervical spine parameters in CLP patients.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 28 children with mixed dentition (14 CLP, 14 controls).
- Lateral craniocervical radiographs were taken in a natural head position.
- Analysis of angular and linear dimensions to assess craniofacial and cervical spine parameters.
Main Results:
- Operated CLP children exhibited increased head extension on the neck.
- A significant forward shift in cervical spine position was observed in the CLP group.
- Reduced cervical spine curvature was noted in children with CLP compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Surgical repair of cleft lip and palate is associated with altered head posture and cervical spine alignment.
- These findings suggest a complex interplay between CLP, surgical intervention, and craniofacial and cervical spine morphology.
- Further research is warranted to explore the long-term implications of these findings.