Cleft lip/palate reconstruction using techniques from Abbé and Von Langenbeck

Abstract

Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital deformities of embryonic origin that are formed between the 8th and the 32nd week of gestation, are caused by a failure of fusion of the median nasal processes. They are considered to be the most common congenital deformities among humans, originated in pharyngeal or brachial apparatus and its derivatives. Clinically and socially disabled individuals with cleft lip or cleft palate present problems of eating, swallowing, dysarthria, hypoplasia of the maxilla during growth, occlusal disharmony, low self-esteem and external appearances in different degrees. This article aims to present a clinical case of cleft lip/palate in adult, proceeding with its surgical correction by applying the techniques of Abbé and Von Langenbeck, emphasizing the importance of a correct diagnosis and proper treatment.