Autologous Bone Grafting With Adjunctive Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix for Alveolar Cleft Defects: Early Outcomes

Abstract Background and Purpose: Alveolar bone grafting remains the standard for alveolar cleft repair. Compromised oral and/or nasal closure may impede healing and result in graft failure or persistent fistulae. Incorporating acellular dermal matrix into these repairs may protect the bone graft during mucosal healing by providing an additional layer of soft tissue coverage. Methods: A retrospective review of alveolar bone grafts undertaken at our cleft–craniofacial center from 2005 to 2007 was performed. The use of acellular dermal matrix for nasal and/or oral lining augmentation was determined. A minimum 3 months' follow-up was required for inclusion. Outcomes included (1) mucosal disruption, (2) time to complete mucosal healing, (3) bone graft exposure, (4) postoperative bone graft incorporation using the Chelsea scale, and (5) canine eruption through the graft site. Results: In total, 35 patients were included. Of those, 15 patients (four girls, 11 boys; seven Veau III, eight Veau IV) received acellul...