Midline Cleft Lip and Bifid Nose Deformity: Description, Classification, and Treatment

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Pediatric plastic surgery
• Congenital anomaly research

Background:

• Midline facial clefts result from incomplete fusion of medial nasal prominences.
• These anomalies range from minor lip notching to severe craniofacial disfigurement.
• Associated anomalies may include orbital hypertelorism and frontoethmoidal encephaloceles.

Observation:

• A retrospective review of 4 cases of midline cleft lip with or without nasal deformities was conducted.
• A comprehensive literature search identified relevant studies on midline cleft lip and bifid nose.
• A novel 5-tiered classification system was developed based on case series and literature review.

Findings:

• Successful functional and aesthetic correction was achieved in all 4 cases.
• A classification system and treatment strategy for midline cleft lip and bifid nose deformity were established.
• The study presents technical approaches for surgical correction.

Implications:

• Accurate classification is crucial for effective surgical treatment of midline cleft lip and bifid nose.
• A single-stage surgical approach, including tissue excision, muscle repair, and osteotomy, can safely correct these deformities.
• Understanding embryology and associated anomalies is vital for comprehensive management.