Formation of Philtral Column using AlloDerm(R) in Secondary Cleft Lip Deformity

ABSTRACT

It is essential to reconstruct philtral column correctly during cheiloplasty because philtrum has an important role in facial contouring and cosmetics of the human face. Regarding to the appropriate time of the philtral reconstruction, it is generally accepted that Millard rotation- advancement flap at the primary cheiloplasty has the advantages of decreasing tension and obtaining a remnant skin. But, many surgeons still have a tendency to reconstruct the philtrum during secondary cheiloplasty. From June 2000 to June 2001, at department of plastic and reconstructive surgery of Chonnam National University Hospital, 20 patients of secondary cleft lip and nasal deformity who previously received primary cheiloplasty were reconstructed the philtral column with acelluar human dermis(AlloDerm(R)) In conclusion, this technique have the several advantages such as simplicity, shorter operation time, absent donor site scar and effectiveness, compared with other surgical methods.