Radical muscle mobilisation in surgery for a unilateral cleft lip

The embryological basis of a unilateral cleft lip is briefly outlined. The abnormal configuration of the orbicularis oris in a unilateral cleft lip is viewed on a model. The effect of freeing this muscle from its abnormal attachments and radically mobilising it, is theoretically discussed. The actual effects of such a mobilisation in clinical practice are shown. Post operative results of 16 unilateral cleft lips treated by radical muscle mobilisation are presented and discussed. The need for a longer follow up is recognised.