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Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Author Spotlight: Investigating Wound Healing in Mice Models of Oronasal Fistulas
Published on: September 8, 2023
Successful Premaxillary Reconstruction and Oronasal Fistula Closure in a Patient With VATER Syndrome With Bilateral
Jayson Workman1, Antonio Atte2, Patrick Wong1,2
1Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Abstract:
VATER syndrome is a non-random association of birth defects affecting multiple organ systems, with orofacial clefts uncommonly reported. This study presents a unique case of a patient with VATER syndrome with a bilateral cleft lip and palate who underwent the rare surgical removal of the premaxilla during cleft lip repair, resulting in a large maxillary defect and oronasal fistula. This report highlights the successful use of non-vascularized bone graft in this setting, with 13-month follow-up demonstrating bone consolidation and fistula closure. The case adds to the evidence supporting non-vascularized bone graft for extensive maxillary defects, even with oronasal fistula.

