An Extraoral Nasoalveolar Molding Technique in Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Abstract

Summary: Although nasoalveolar molding is commonly performed before cleft lip surgery, customized palatal plate availability is limited for patients far from a hospital. This case report describes a preformed extraoral nasoalveolar molding (PENAM) appliance and treatment approach for presurgical nasoalveolar molding in newborns with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate. A 12-day-old boy presented with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate. The PENAM device was supported by an adhesive-taped upper lip, which consisted of a lip nasal stent made from a 0.5-mm stainless steel wire. The spring was activated monthly. The shape of the cartilaginous septum, alar cartilage tip, medial crus, lateral crus, and alveolar segments was molded to resemble the normal shape of these structures. The 9.3-mm alveolar gaps were reduced and approximated. The approximation mostly came from the major alveolus segment with approximately 6.4-mm movement. Cleft side nostril height increased 5.5 mm and deviation of the columella was corrected by 42°. PENAM can be helpful in infants with unilateral cleft lip and palate because it has benefits for long-term forced delivery, requires less frequent activations, and is suitable for patients who live far from a hospital.