Three-Dimensional Analysis of Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Nasal Deformity

This cross-sectional study utilizes 3-dimensional analysis to assess nasal morphology in patients with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) compared to controls across the timeline of cleft care.

Retrospective comparative cross-sectional study.

Tertiary pediatric academic institution.

One hundred and twelve patients with BCLP and an equal number of age and sex-matched control participants.

Nasolabial angle, nasal length, nasal protrusion, columella length, columella width, nasal tip width, alar width, and alar base width were collected at each time point. The measurements were collected pre-nasoalveolar molding (NAM) therapy, post-NAM therapy, post-primary cleft rhinoplasty, 1 year, 5 years, 10 years, and 15 years of age.

Nasolabial angle and nasal tip width were significantly different from controls from pre-NAM through 15 years of age time points. Nasal length was not significantly different at any time point. Alar width and alar base width were significantly different from pre-NAM through 10 years of age time points. Nasal protrusion, columella length, and columella width were significantly different from pre-NAM through 5 years of age time points.

This study demonstrates that three-dimensional photogrammetry is effective in assessing the changes in nasal morphology that occur throughout the course of care in patients with BCLP from before cleft lip repair to the completion of nasal growth.