Oral clefting is one of the most common significant fetal abnormalities. Cleft lip
and cleft palate have drastically different clinical ramifications and management
from one another. A cleft of the alveolus (with or without cleft lip) can confuse
the diagnostic picture and lead to a false assumption of cleft palate. The cleft alveolus
should be viewed on the spectrum of cleft lip rather than be associated with cleft
palate. This is made evident by understanding the embryological development of the
midface and relevant terminology. Cleft alveolus carries significantly different clinical
implications and treatment options than that of cleft palate. Accurately distinguishing
cleft alveolus from cleft palate is crucial for appropriate discussions regarding
the patient's care.
Keywords
cleft lip - cleft palate - cleft alveolus - oral cleft - prenatal diagnosis cleft
- craniofacial