Kaplan's commissuroplasty and myoplasty technique in the reconstruction of isolated bilateral transverse facial clefts

Abstract

Bilateral transverse facial clefts are a rarity and are often isolated without other craniofacial deformities. The goals of surgery are to reestablish function and an esthetically pleasing outcome through the reconstruction of a functioning orbicularis oris muscle ring with minimal scars. We report our experience in the reconstruction of isolated bilateral transverse facial clefts in two patients using Kaplan's technique and a straight-line skin closure. There was a satisfactory preservation of the continuity of the vermillion at the commissure, as well as restoration of both the sphincteric function of the orbicularis oris muscle and size of the oral aperture in the patients.

Keywords

• Bilateral
• commissuroplasty
• Kaplan's technique
• macrostomia
• myoplasty