Three-Dimensional Analysis of Nasal Symmetry following Primary Correction of Unilateral Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity

Abstract

Three-dimensional photogrammetry was used to successfully compare symmetry among different patient and control groups. Although "normal" nasal symmetry was attained in some patients following cleft lip/nasal repair, most had persistent asymmetry compared with normal controls. Placement of a resorbable internal splint did not improve symmetry in patients with unilateral complete cleft lip/palate.

The possibilities of a portable low-budget three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry system in neonates: a prospective growth analysis and analysis of accuracy

“…This is not the first study of neonates/newborn using 3D systems and scanner. But most 3D photogrammetry systems were only used to perform a descriptive analysis of the post-operative result for example after primary lip repair in children with cleft lip and palate or in patients with craniosynostosis [ 11 – 14 ]. Our study analyzed the growth of the perinasal region in healthy unaffected newborn.…”

“…It enables non-invasive preoperative illustrative, virtual documentation, planning and simulation [ 7 , 8 ]. Beside 2D analysis, 3D photography can also be used to analyze facial soft tissue asymmetry [ 9 – 11 ]. More recently, 3D photogrammetry is adapted in the post-operative follow-up of the young patients presenting with cleft lip and palate and/or craniosynostosis [ 12 – 15 ].…”

Outcomes of Closed Versus Open Technique of Rhinoplasty During Primary Repair of Unilateral Cleft Lip: A Systematic Review

“…After a mean follow-up period of 20.4 months, photogrammetry analysis of the alar contour was used for assessment and they found a definitive improvement in symmetry compared to controls and has concluded that an internal splint protects alar cartilage longer than external splint. The second study by Linden et al (2017) on 20 patients with and 18 without the internal splint on 3-D photogrammetry showed no improvement in nasal symmetry with use of the splint. Due to the heterogeneity of the methods of study and scarcity of standardized outcome assessment, we were not able to do a meta-analysis or compare the data from the available studies.…”

Growth patterns of the nasolabial region following unilateral cleft lip primary repair

“…In patients aged 6–12 years after primary repair, the nasal soft tissue exhibits a better symmetry than the hard tissue, and this could be attributed to the compensatory growth of the nasal soft tissue, especially in the vertical and sagittal dimensions ( 28 ). It is also believed that at this age, despite the nasal symmetry being close to “normal,” the asymmetry persists in most patients ( 23 , 42 ). In adulthood, however, assessed by 3D images in patients of the unilateral cleft lip–only group, no statistically significant asymmetry between the cleft side and the non-cleft side of the nose is identified ( 33 , 43 ).…”