Analysis of skeletal growth and development in cleft lip and palate patients undergoing Delaire’s functional surgery

ABSTRACT Objectives: The purpose of this article is to analyze the skeletal features and further treatment required by cleft lip and palate patients treated with Delaire’s functional surgery during the years 2005-2010 at San Borja Arriarán Hospital in Santiago, Chile, focusing on the subsequent requirement for orthognathic surgery. Patients and methods: An observational retrospective study included patients with cleft lip and palate undergoing Delaire’s functional surgery, analyzing patients’ clinical records, updated dental cast models, and cephalograms. Individuals meeting the inclusion criteria were classified according to diagnosis and later applied clinical and radiographic methods. Measurements of overjet and overbite were performed in available dental cast study models, along with the molar relationship according to Angle’s classification. Furthermore, GOSLON Yardstick was applied to determine long-term occlusal prognosis and the ultimate requirement for secondary surgery. Results: A sample of 30 patients was obtained. Regarding occlusal analysis, severe overbite alterations were not observed, while overjet exhibited predominantly negative measures; with bilateral cleft lip and palate corresponding to the most altered group. 10 patients (33%) were ultimately elected for orthognathic surgery, presenting average overjet of -0.13 mm and GOSLON Yardstick scores of 4-5. None cases for osteogenic distraccion. Conclusions: Skeletal development observed in patients undergoing Delaire’s functional surgery may be considered appropriate since it implies mild and moderate maxillary discrepancies. With 53.3 % of the individuals classified in GOSLON groups 1-3, proper occlusal relationships can be observed, allowing them to be successfully treated through an orthopedic approach.