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Quantifying Sagittal Lip Changes in Patients with Bilateral Cleft Lip Post Abbe Flap Reconstruction
John N Muller1, Allison Diaz1, Alexandra Verzella1
1Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
Summary
Abbe flap reconstruction significantly improves sagittal lip projection in patients with bilateral cleft lip. This study quantifies these positive changes, aiding surgical planning and patient counseling.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Aesthetic Analysis
Background:
- Bilateral cleft lip presents unique challenges in reconstruction.
- The Abbe flap is a common surgical technique for lip repair.
- Objective quantification of lip changes post-reconstruction is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively measure sagittal lip changes after Abbe flap reconstruction in bilateral cleft lip patients.
- To analyze the impact of the Abbe flap on upper and lower lip projection.
- To provide data for surgical planning and patient counseling.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study of 17 patients with bilateral cleft lip.
- Lateral photographs taken pre- and post-Abbe flap reconstruction (minimum 8 months).
- Analysis using Vegner's index, Sushner's S2 line, and Burstone's B line.
Main Results:
- Vegner's Lip Index increased from 0.906 to 0.946 post-reconstruction.
- Sushner's S2 line showed increased upper lip projection (–0.164 to 1.459).
- Burstone's B line also showed increased upper lip projection (0.259 to 0.957) (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Abbe flap reconstruction leads to significant, quantifiable improvements in sagittal lip position.
- The study provides objective data on lip profile changes following this procedure.
- Findings can inform surgical decision-making and manage expectations for patients and caregivers.
