Mihai Ioan
DMD, OMFS, Assist Prof
Titu Maiorescu University, Bucharest, Romania
ROMANIA
Session 36 · DAY 3 (Nov. 7, 2026) · 15:30–16:00 CET
Management of Cleft Lip and Palate Patients
Abstract
Cleft lip and palate management requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach extending from infancy to adulthood. The primary objectives are to restore function as early as possible, minimize the number of surgical interventions, optimize facial growth, and improve quality of life and social integration. Treatment begins with presurgical orthopedic techniques, including nasoalveolar molding, followed by primary lip and palate repair using well-established reconstructive principles focused on functional muscle repositioning and nasal correction.
Long-term care includes early and continuous speech therapy, secondary revision procedures when indicated, alveolar bone grafting, orthodontic and orthopedic treatment, and orthognathic surgery for skeletal discrepancies. Careful treatment sequencing and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes while minimizing residual deformities.
Clinical cases illustrating different treatment pathways and outcomes highlight the consequences of incomplete management, particularly the absence of alveolar bone grafting and orthodontic treatment, as well as the benefits of appropriately timed secondary reconstructive procedures. This presentation reviews the current treatment philosophy, surgical techniques, growth considerations, and rehabilitation strategies, emphasizing individualized treatment planning to maximize long-term functional, esthetic, and psychosocial outcomes in patients with cleft lip and palate.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the principles of contemporary multidisciplinary management of cleft lip and palate patients from birth to adulthood.
- Recognize the importance of treatment sequencing and interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving optimal functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial outcomes.
- Apply key clinical concepts to treatment planning, including the timing of surgical, orthodontic, and speech interventions to minimize long-term complications.
Biography
Mihai Ioan is a dually qualified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Based in Bucharest, he divides his professional time between private practice, colaborating with multiple clinics, and academia by serving as a Teaching Assistant at Titu Maiorescu University’s Faculty of Dental Medicine.
Building on his extensive training in maxillofacial surgery, he has pursued advanced specialization in cleft lip and palate surgery at the GSR Institute for Craniofacial Surgery in Hyderabad, India, under the mentorship of Professor Dr. Srinivas Gosla Reddy.
Extending beyond his clinical practice, Mihai’s interests include healthcare equity and systemic improvement. He has actively participated in international outreach initiatives, collaborating with service organizations and NGOs to enhance pediatric surgical care in Romania. Outside his medical career, Mihai is passionate about volunteering, sports, and exploring different cultures.