Three-dimensional assessment of craniofacial parameters in subjects with cleft lip and palate: A cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to observe the differences in craniofacial parameters in subjects with cleft lip and palate and compare with normal subjects and also evaluate the association between chin deviation and asymmetry of face. Materials and Methods: Fifty cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans (25 each) of the control group (Group I: normal) and study group (Group II: cleft lip and palate) subjects residing in Uttar Pradesh were obtained using care-stream CS 9300 3D system (care-stream Health, Inc. 2004). The digitizations and measurements were carried out in Dolphin Imaging software (Dolphin imaging version 11.9.07.24 premium). All subjects were within the age group of 15.1–18.9 years. Asymmetry indices (AI%) of the parameters were calculated as proposed by Habets et al. Results: Mean ± standard deviation of the differences in the variables between noncleft side (right side) and the cleft side (left) among the study group showed significant differences for Nasal width (P 3% threshold value for nasal width (5.08% ± 5.72%) and for nasal height (−4.80 ± 10.81%) in the study group. Conclusion: From the study, it was observed that asymmetry exists in the region of the defect that lies in the area of the contracture. Mandibular asymmetry has also been expressed with deviation of chin to the cleft side. The asymmetry index (AI%) values were >3% threshold value only in the region of the defect.

Keywords

• asymmetry
• cone-beam computed tomography
• unilateral cleft lip and/palate