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INTRODUCTION

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INTRODUCTION

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INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Cleft lip is one of the most common congenital anomalies, affecting approximately 1

in 700 live births worldwide. Unilateral cleft lip, a condition where there is a gap or

split in the upper lip on one side, poses significant challenges in both function and

aesthetics, requiring meticulous surgical intervention for optimal outcomes. One of

the pivotal decisions in cleft lip repair is the choice of suturing material, which plays a

crucial role in wound healing, scar formation, and the overall aesthetic result. The

widely recognized attributes of an ideal suture material include high tensile strength,

reliable knot security, excellent handling properties, minimal tissue reactivity, non-

allergenic qualities, resistance to infection, and the ability to be absorbed once tissue

repair is adequately achieved.

Suturing materials in cleft lip repair can be broadly categorized into absorbable and

non-absorbable types. Absorbable sutures, typically made from materials like poly-

glycolic acid or poly-dioxanone, are designed to be broken down and absorbed by

the body over time. Non-absorbable sutures, such as nylon or polypropylene, remain

in the tissue unless they are removed manually.

The selection between these types of sutures can influence not only the immediate

post-operative period but also the long-term cosmetic and functional outcomes of the

repair. The type of suture used can affect aesthetic results, with some materials

leading to more favorable, less noticeable scars. Additionally, the risk of hypertrophic

scar formation, characterized by raised and thickened scars, can vary depending on

whether absorbable or non-absorbable sutures are used.

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INTRODUCTION

The importance of this selection can be outlined through several key aspects such

as aesthetic outcome, hypertrophic scar formation, functional outcome, wound

healing and complication, long-term outcome, and comfort. Among these, aesthetic

outcome plays a crucial role as the primary goal in cleft lip repair is to achieve a

normal appearance, restoring both function and form.

The choice of suture material directly impacts the aesthetic outcome of the surgery.

Non-absorbable sutures, which need to be removed after the wound has healed,

may result in less scarring compared to some absorbable sutures that dissolve on

their own but could potentially cause more tissue reaction and inflammation.

Conversely, absorbable sutures avoid the need for suture removal, reducing patient

discomfort and the risk of stitch marks, particularly beneficial in the facial area.

The occurrence of hypertrophic scars in unilateral cleft lip patients is also a

significant concern, and it is influenced by the type of suture material used during the

surgical repair. Hypertrophic scars are characterized by excessive collagen

deposition leading to raised, red, and thickened scar tissue that remains within the

boundary of the original incision. The incidence of such scars can be affected by the

properties of the sutures, including their material composition, reactivity, and

handling characteristics.

Furthermore, the choice of suture influences wound healing, infection rates, and

overall tissue reaction. Ultimately, selecting the appropriate suture material tailored

to the patient's needs and surgical requirements is essential for achieving optimal

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INTRODUCTION

functional and cosmetic results, enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals

undergoing cleft lip repair.

This study offers valuable insights into optimizing suture selection to enhance both

cosmetic and functional outcomes in unilateral cleft lip repair, ultimately improving

patient care and satisfaction.

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