[The early treatment of children with cheilognathopalatoschisis--the orthodontic aspects].

Maxillary alveolar arch morphology and growth was studied in 15 children with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate treated with passive orthopaedic plates. Nine patients were treated to the "Zurich concept" and compared to six children who had lip surgery and primary bone-grafting at about six months of age and complete palate closure at 18 months. Maxillary alveolar arch morphology was described at birth, at six months, at 18 months and at 4.5 years. After early orthopaedic treatment the alveolar and palatal cleft width decreased significantly, the major segment was relocated into a more normal position and the midline deviation was reduced, whereas the minor segment rotated towards the palate.