Cleft Lip and Palate and Alveolar Bone Grafting in the United Kingdom: A Brief Overview for Non-specialists

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.