Alexandru Nemtoi, Ana Sîrghie, Ana Nemtoi, Danisia Haba, Eduard Ciucă, Elena Tătăranu
ABSTRACT
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used for surgical treatment planning in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP). The aim of this study is to examine the presence of anatomical variations in UCLP patients by reviewing CBCT images. Materials and Methods: CBCT scans were systematically evaluated from consecutive patients (n = 55; mean age 11.72 ± 3 years, range 7.5–21 years) with non-syndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP), taken between January 2017 and 2024. The evaluations included the sinuses, nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), maxilla, and mandible for incidental findings. Results: Incidental findings were present in 95.3% of the CBCT scans. The most prevalent findings included airway and sinus issues (88.3%), dental issues such as missing teeth (48%), nasal septum deviation (98%), middle ear and mastoid opacification suggesting otitis media (6%) and chronic mastoiditis (5%), as well as abnormal TMJ anatomy (2.3%). Conclusions: Incidental findings are highly prevalent in CBCT scans of CLP patients. Compared with general populations, UCLP patients exhibit higher rates of dental, nasal, and ear anomalies. Reviewing CBCT scans should involve all UCLP team specialists, who should apply their specific expertise on UCLP symptoms and treatments.
DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.1.17.8
Loading...
Reload document 
Open in new tab