Reshaping Faces, Redefining Risks: A Systematic Review of Orthognathic Surgery Outcomes in Cleft Lip and Palate Patients

Abstract

Background: This study aims to determine a generalized outcome and risk profile for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery for the definitive treatment of cleft lip and palate. Furthermore, we hope to determine the key risk factors that cause increased risk for cleft lip and palate patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Methods: This study includes a systematic review using PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Scopus. Data curation utilized Covidence software, with dual-reviewer screening and conflict resolution by a third party, focusing on publications with the full texts available. Results: The initial search yielded 1697 articles. Following title, abstract, and full-text screening, a total of 62 articles were included in this review. A total of 70.9% of included articles had moderate bias, with the rest having low risk of bias. The sample consisted of 2550 patients with an average age of about 20 years and an average follow-up of 16.8 months. The most employed procedure was Le Fort I osteotomy (99%). In terms of velopharyngeal function, there were notable increases in insufficiency and severity scores, with an average 63% worsening score from the baseline. That being said, patients experienced an average 33% improvement in speech articulation. Furthermore, the average horizontal movement was reported to be 6.09 mm with a subsequent relapse of 0.98 mm overall. Conclusions: This systematic review distills data from 62 articles and 2550 patients. It highlights the efficacy of orthognathic surgery in addressing oropharyngeal and aesthetic deficits. This study identifies relapse and velopharyngeal insufficiency as recurrent complications. These insights inform surgical refinement and patient counseling, laying a foundation for enhanced clinical protocols.