Facial clefts

Facial clefts, including those of the lip and palate, are extremely rare. Some arise at the junction of facial processes preventing fusion, others have their origin in or between ossification centers. Virtually all are associated with osseous deficiencies. This article reviews the pathogenesis and morphology of these clefts. The principles of skeletal and soft tissue reconstruction are discussed and the experience of the authors with various new techniques is reported.