Assessment of mandibular symmetry in cleft lip and cleft palate patients

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate cleft patients, both unilateral and bilateral clefts and compare them with Skeletal base Class I patients for symmetry using orthopantomogram. Materials and Methods: Three groups of patients within age range of 15–25 years: Group I – Normal participants (mean age = 18.33 ± 2.84); Group II – Unilateral cleft lip and cleft palate participants (mean age = 18.74 ± 3.36); and Group III – Bilateral cleft lip and cleft palate participants (mean age = 17.64 ± 3.10) were assessed and compared to each other. Orthopantomogram was analyzed for vertical symmetry. Habets asymmetry index and the Kjellgren's asymmetry index were applied to assess the relative intensity of asymmetry. Results: Significant difference was seen in condylar height (P = 0.029), ramal height (P = 0.046), mandibular body length (P = 0.014), gonial angle (P = 0.035) and condylion–gonian distance (P = 0.044). Kjellberg's symmetry index/condylar ratio was maximally affected by the groups when compared with the Habets asymmetry index. Conclusion: Mandibular asymmetry has been expressed in unilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP) group. Normal group and bilateral CLP group indicated a symmetrical posterior vertical height of the mandible.