A novel measurement system for assessing the nose in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP)

OBJECTIVE: The presented study shows a new and innovative method to determine nasal asymmetries in a simple way in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) in order to plan corrective surgery. DESIGN: 86 non-syndromic patients with cleft lip and palate were divided into 2 groups: a) patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate b) patients with bilateral cleft lip and palate. PATIENTS: follow-up of hospital records of 86 patients aged 2–18 years. MAIN OUTCOME: Based on standardised photos of the nose from 3 different directions, the nose symmetry was assessed. A new digital measurement system was used, which is integrated into proven clinical programmes. These were compared with a control group. In addition, a mirror fog test and a standardised questionnaire were used. RESULT: The overall results showed a good symmetry of the nose postoperatively, as well as a high satisfaction of the patients and their parents. Profile and angle measurements showed a better result. CONCLUSIO: The presented measurement system and especially the Cleft Lip Component Symmetry Index (CLCSI) allows an individual and very effective assessment of the symmetry of the nose as well as a control of the growth in patients with CLP. The method is easy to apply in daily practice, even for untrained practitioners.