Nasoalveolar Molding in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate: A Three‐Dimensional Analysis

Objectives This study aimed to three‐dimensionally analyse the effects of pre‐surgical nasoalveolar molding (NAM) in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate. Methods The sample consisted of 66 patients (with pre‐ and post‐NAM casts), collected from three centres. Landmarks and measurements were identified on each cast, and the changes from pre‐ to post‐NAM were recorded and analysed using a paired t ‐test. Results Post‐NAM, we observed a mean decrease of 5.18 mm in 3D cleft width, a 1.78 mm decrease in the sagittal cleft gap, a 1.34 mm decrease in the anterior arch width and a 2.27 mm increase in the posterior arch width. There was a greater inward rotation of the greater segment (8.50°) compared to the lesser segment (3.09°), an increase in arch depth (1.74 mm) and internal flexion (9.20°) of the lesser segment. No statistically significant changes in the greater segment's arch depth and internal flexion were observed. The morphological changes between pre‐ and post‐NAM therapy were visualised by the closest‐distance colour maps and 3D superimposition assessments. Conclusions This study demonstrated the significant morphological changes induced by pre‐surgical nasoalveolar molding (NAM) in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate through a three‐dimensional analysis. There was a notable reduction in cleft width, inward rotation of the greater segment and changes in arch dimensions.