Symmetrical Philtral Column Repair for Unilateral Cleft Lip

Background: When treating a patient with a unilateral cleft lip, the goal is to try and achieve a result that is the least perceivable at conversational distance.The end result should be a balanced and symmetrical lip with scars that are hidden or are placed in natural anatomical lines.Several methods have been described to repair the lip . The most popular repairs at present are the rotation-advancement or its modifications and the various versions of the straight line repair. Method: In our unit we have evolved a method that we title the Symmetrical Philtral Column (SPC) repair.In this method we attempt to achieve a philtral column that mirrors the philtral column on the normal side and to producing a balanced appearing lip.This method has been used for the last 14 years in over 500 patients. Results: The results have been satisfying with a lip revision rate of 6%. Conclusions: The SPC repair of a unilateral cleft lip is an effective and safe repair.The repair is easy to understand and produces results that minimises the stigmata of a cleft lip deformity. Corresponding Author: Anil Madaree, M.D., FCS (SA) , FRCS (Eng) , Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital Durban, SOUTH AFRICA ©2019American Society of Plastic Surgeons

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