Use of Elastic Tapes in Presurgical Nasoalveolar Molding: A Case Report

Abstract

Objective:One of the objectives of presurgical nasoalveolar molding (PNAM) is to bring the lips together in order to decrease the severity of the deformity before surgery. This case report aims to present PNAM therapy of an infant with bilateral cleft lip and primary palate using prefabricated elastic tapes.Materials and Method:A 3-day-old baby girl with bilateral cleft lip and alveolus was referred to our clinic. Her extraoral examination revealed a deviated and protruded premaxilla, a deficient columella, a short prolabium, depressed alar cartilages, and separated lip segments. A PNAM appliance combined with dynamic tapes (DynaCleft, Canica Design Inc, Ontario, Canada) was delivered the same day.Results:After 3 months of PNAM therapy the premaxillary deviation was corrected, the columella and prolabium were lengthened, and projection and symmetry of the nose were obtained. The horizontal elastic tapes decreased the muscle tension and brought the lips together.Conclusion:Dynamic bands are very effective because of the active force derived from their elastic components and thus can be recommended during PNAM therapy as an alternative to conventional tapes.

Keywords

• nasoalveolar molding
• prefabricated dynamic tapes