Current State-of-the-Art in Alveolar Cleft Reconstruction: Lo’s Modified Secondary Alveolar Bone Grafting

Abstract

AbstractReconstruction of the maxillary alveolar defect is an essential step in the longitudinal care of patients with cleft deformity. Autologous bone grafting is still considered the standard method for alveolar cleft repair. However, therapeutic protocols vary widely between centers and surgeons. This chapter addresses the surgical repair of alveolar cleft defect, highlighting the existing controversies surrounding this treatment such as the timing of alveolar reconstruction, bone source, and adoption of preoperative orthodontic treatment. The current surgical procedure adopted by the authors, that is, Lo’s modified secondary alveolar bone grafting with Scarpa fascia reinforcement that has resulted in both high graft survival rate and low complication rate is also detailed.KeywordsSecondary alveolar bone graftingScarpa fasciaOutcomeAlveolar defectAlveolar cleft