THE EFFECT OF ANTENATAL SURGERY ON CRANIOFACIAL GROWTH IN A SHEEP MODEL

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of antena tal palatal surgery in a sheep model. At 75 to 90 days of gestation, 2 0 fetuses underwent surgical in utero manipulation of their palates wi th the incision and elevation of bilateral bipedicled mucoperiosteal f laps. Sixteen of the 20 sheep (80 percent) went on to a normal full-te rm delivery. The palates and facial appearances were grossly evaluated , and detailed measurements were made of the palates. The data underwe nt statistical analysis. We were unable to discern any differences bet ween the experimental group and the age-matched controls. Antenatal pa latal surgery appeared to have no effect on craniofacial growth and de velopment.