Osteotomy of the Premaxilla in Bilateral Cleft Lip: A Useful Technique Following Failure of Primary Lip Closure

Successful aesthetic repair of the bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) is one of the most challenging cases encountered by a surgeon. This challenge is heightened when the premaxilla is anteriorly protruded in relation lateral maxillary segments. Our aim is to demonstrate a useful technique for reducing the cleft size before secondary lip repair. We use a premaxillary osteotomy to posteriorly reposition the premaxilla between the lateral segments.

Six patients with BCLP underwent repositioning of the protruded premaxilla. Five patients had previous primary lip closure procedures with unsatisfactory results. The cleft size was reduced by premaxillary osteotomy from nasal septum and partial removal of the vertical vomer. The osteotomized premaxilla was then repositioned, fixed with a custom-made orthodontic appliance. Following this procedure, the lip was closed in a traditional fashion.

All patients demonstrated satisfying lip closure without tension. In each case, the premaxilla was vital and exhibited partial stabilization during follow-up.

In this study the authors demonstrate the usefulness of a premaxillary segment setback as an adjunct to improved function and aesthetics in bilateral lip repair. This method serves as useful technique for previously unsuccessful closure of BCLP.