Accessory Maxilla in a Tessier 07 Cleft - A Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Pediatric dentistry
• Medical imaging

Background:

• Accessory maxilla is a rare congenital anomaly, with fewer than 25 reported cases.
• Often associated with Tessier type-7 clefts, it can present with supernumerary teeth.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing potential growth disturbances.

Observation:

• A 5.5-year-old boy, previously treated for macrostomia, presented with a unilateral accessory maxilla and six supernumerary teeth.
• Radiological examination confirmed the presence of the accessory maxilla, which was impacting facial growth.
• The condition was diagnosed based on clinical presentation, history, and imaging studies.

Findings:

• Surgical removal of the accessory maxilla and supernumerary teeth was performed using an intraoral approach.
• Post-operative healing was uneventful, and the observed growth deviation was successfully arrested.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the nature of the accessory bone and dental structures.

Implications:

• The intraoral approach is a viable and effective surgical option for accessory maxilla removal.
• Timely removal of accessory structures impinging on vital facial components, such as the temporomandibular joint or facial nerve, is essential.
• This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare craniofacial anomalies to ensure proper facial form and function.