Bilateral Tessier's 7 Cleft with Maxillary Duplication

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Embryonic development
• Congenital anomalies

Background:

• Tessier's 7 cleft, or lateral facial cleft, arises from incomplete fusion of embryonic mandibular and maxillary processes.
• These clefts can occur independently or with other anomalies, presenting with varied severity.

Observation:

• A rare case of bilateral Tessier's 7 cleft was observed in an 18-year-old male.
• The patient also presented with maxillary duplication, macrostomia, bilateral posterior maxillary cleft, and mandibular retrusion.

Findings:

• The case highlights a complex presentation of rare craniofacial malformations.
• Bilateral Tessier's 7 cleft combined with maxillary duplication and mandibular retrusion is exceptionally uncommon.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of rare facial cleft anomalies and their complex presentations.
• Further research into the embryological basis of such combined anomalies is warranted.
• Highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnosis in managing complex craniofacial conditions.