Anatomic approximation approach to correction of transverse facial clefts

Transverse clefts of the oral cavity have significant impacts on both form and function. Many methods of repair have been described but there is no consensus on optimal approach. In addition, dissatisfaction with scars, distortion of form, and recurrent deformity have led to complex surgical designs that are difficult to understand and to reproduce. We describe a simple approach to repair that is based upon anatomic approximation of lip components and accurate repair of muscle.Twenty patients have undergone repair by the senior author, who devised the approach, and the corresponding author, who adopted it.