cleft lip and palate repair
Surgical reconstruction of congenital facial clefts affecting the lip, nose, and palate.
Full Definition
Cleft lip and palate repair involves multiple staged surgeries to reconstruct normal anatomy and function in patients born with orofacial clefts. Primary lip repair (cheiloplasty) is typically performed at 3-6 months of age, while palate repair (palatoplasty) occurs around 12-18 months. Secondary procedures may include nose reconstruction, bone grafting, and speech surgery. The goal is to achieve normal feeding, speech, hearing, and facial appearance. Treatment requires multidisciplinary coordination including plastic surgery, orthodontics, and speech therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether referring to primary or secondary repair and the specific technique used.
In Context
- "The infant underwent primary cleft lip repair using the Millard rotation-advancement technique." — operative report
- "Secondary cleft lip and palate repair may require alveolar bone grafting in adolescence." — craniofacial surgery guidelines