MODIFIED WIRE STENT FOR PRESURGICAL NASOALVEOLAR MOULDING OF UNILATERAL CLEFT LIP AND PALATE

Abstract

The idea behind this innovation was to modify the existing self-retentive nasoalveolar moulding plate with acrylic stent. This case reports on a 3 days old neonate born with unilateral cleft lip and palate of the left side, and treated with the modified stent plate with adjunctive adhesive steri tape. This modification comprises of an orthopaedic plate for alveolar moulding and wire stent for nasal moulding of the depressed lower lateral cartilage on affected side. The device was activated on weekly basis till three months of age. Photocopy analysis determined a significant reduction of 6 mm in the anterior cleft region. Alar tip and nasal alar dome were elevated to near normal shape. The device approximated major alveolar segment more efficiently, improved nasal tip and symmetry before cheiloplasty. Lip scar is minimised with pleasant facial appearance.