title: Cleft Lip and Palate and Alveolar Bone Grafting in the United Kingdom: A Brief Overview for Non-specialists.
abstract: Cleft lip and palate is a common congenital defect that is associated with various functional, aesthetic and psychosocial problems. The objective of this article is to share a brief overview of cleft and lip palate classification, aetiology, complications and management, particularly aimed at non-specialists. The literature suggests that the use of iliac crest bone in secondary alveolar bone grafting (ABG) still seems to be the favoured technique for cleft lip and palate repair. In conclusion, we suggest that advances in bone morphogenic proteins may be the key to further advancement in ABG.
authors.affiliation: Monklands Hospital, Monkscourt Ave, Airdrie, North Lanarkshire ML6 0JS, UK.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shafi
authors.affiliation: Monklands Hospital, Monkscourt Ave, Airdrie, North Lanarkshire ML6 0JS, UK. E-mail: elliottahkee@gmail.com.
authors.forename: E Y
authors.initials: EY
authors.lastname: Ah-Kee
authors.affiliation: Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 84 Castle Street, Glasgow G4 0SF, UK.
authors.forename: A A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Khan
keywords: Alveolar bone grafting; cleft lip; cleft palate