SPINA classification of cleft lip and palate: A suggestion for a complement

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial anomalies
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Plastic surgery

Background:

• Spina's classification system is a standard for cleft palate categorization.
• Existing classification groups may not fully encompass all cleft presentations.
• Simultaneous pre- and postforamen clefts require refined classification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an updated classification for cleft palate.
• To address limitations in Spina's original classification.
• To introduce the Spina-A classification for comprehensive categorization.

Main Methods:

• Review of Spina's classification criteria.
• Analysis of cleft presentations involving both primary and secondary palates.
• Development of a new subgroup within the existing framework.

Main Results:

• A new classification group, IIa, is proposed.
• This group accommodates clefts affecting both pre- and postforamen regions without communication.
• The updated Spina-A classification integrates this new category.

Conclusions:

• The Spina-A classification provides a more comprehensive system for cleft palate.
• It accurately categorizes complex cleft presentations.
• This updated classification aids in standardized reporting and treatment planning.