Abstract
Purpose: The authors accessed the anthropometric measurements of fourty non-cleft normal a three-month-old infant and using this obtained data as a basic guideline, authors applied the modified Noordhoff technique for the treatment of bilateral cleft lip. Methods: Over a period of 10 years, a total of 21 bilateral cleft lips were operated. 13 cases of complete and 8 cases of incomplete bilateral cleft lip and palate. In the complete type of bilateral cleft palate, elastic head cap and passive intraoral appliance were applied at 1 to 2 week of age for 2 months duration. The definitive cheiloplasty was performed at 3 months of age using the modified Noordhoff technique. Results: After a follow-up period ranging one to nine years, most patients presented with cosmetically and functionally satisfying results, with an exception of two cases where an undesired peaking effect of the vermilion and dimpling of the vermilion mucosa was encountered. Conclusion: Accessing the anthropometric measurements of fourty non-cleft normal three-month-old infant and using this obtained dara as a guideline, the modified Noordhoff technique can be applied to either complete or incomplete bilaterally cleft lip providing more naturally pleasing and cosmetically satisfying scars that lie in harmony with the philtral ridges, lip tubercle positioned just below the vermilion and a distinct white line and Cupid's bow.