Our Summary

This research paper discusses a surgical technique for repairing cleft lips, a common birth defect where a baby’s upper lip doesn’t form properly and has a split or opening. This technique, known as Millard’s rotation-advancement repair, has been used since 1955 and has been a popular choice for surgeons. Over the years, this method has evolved and has been the basis for many other techniques used today. The paper compares the original Millard’s method to the more modern versions. The aim is to show how influential Millard’s repair technique has been over the past 50 years for treating cleft lip.

FAQs

  1. What is Millard’s rotation-advancement repair for cleft lip?
  2. How has Millard’s repair technique evolved over the years?
  3. How does Millard’s rotation-advancement technique compare to other cleft lip repair techniques used today?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient undergoing cleft lip repair is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt healing, and attending follow-up appointments for monitoring and potential adjustments to the treatment plan. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding smoking or alcohol consumption can help promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cleft lip repair are those who are born with a cleft lip deformity. This can include infants, children, and adults who have not yet undergone repair surgery. Cleft lip repair is often recommended for functional and aesthetic reasons, as it can improve speech, feeding, and overall facial appearance. Additionally, patients with a cleft lip may also have associated dental and orthodontic issues that can be addressed during the repair process. It is important for patients to undergo cleft lip repair at a young age to optimize outcomes and minimize the impact of the cleft lip on their overall quality of life.

Timeline

Before cleft lip repair:

  • Consultation with a plastic surgeon or cleft lip specialist to discuss options for repair
  • Pre-operative assessments and evaluations to determine the best approach for the individual patient
  • Pre-operative instructions for the patient and their family to follow in preparation for surgery

After cleft lip repair:

  • Immediate post-operative care in the recovery room
  • Pain management and monitoring for any complications
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Long-term follow-up care to monitor growth and development of the repaired lip
  • Potential need for additional surgeries or interventions as the patient grows and develops

Overall, the timeline for a patient undergoing cleft lip repair involves careful planning and assessment before the surgery, followed by comprehensive post-operative care and long-term follow-up to ensure optimal outcomes for the patient.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with cleft lip repair surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after cleft lip repair surgery?
  3. Will my child need any additional surgeries or treatments after the initial repair?
  4. What is the success rate of cleft lip repair surgery?
  5. How soon after birth can cleft lip repair surgery be performed?
  6. Will my child need speech therapy or other therapies after cleft lip repair surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of following cleft lip repair surgery?
  8. How experienced are you in performing cleft lip repair surgeries?
  9. What kind of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. What kind of post-operative care and follow-up will be needed after cleft lip repair surgery?

Reference

Authors: Roussel LO, Myers RP, Girotto JA. Journal: Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2015 Nov;52(6):e188-95. doi: 10.1597/14-276. Epub 2015 Feb 2. PMID: 25642967