Background & Aims : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of fetal surgery in the formation of scar in the rat.

  Materials & Methods : Fourteen pregnant rats (420 ±20) were operated in this study. An incision made in upper lip via open fetal surgery approach and evaluated the scar formation clinically after labor. Operation was done on 16^th to 18^th day of gestation. One of the rats died and was excluded from the study.

  Results : The findings of the study indicated formation of the scar was not clinically observable in in 11 rats (84.61%). In two rats (15.39%) a significant scar occurred.

  Conclusions : One of the best advantages of fetal surgery is lack of scar formation. There are other advantages such as alignment of the orbicularis oris muscle. Early intervention leads to better esthetic results in cleft lip, but it may increase the risk of abortion.     

  SOURCE : URMIA MED J 2012: 22(6): 585 ISSN: 1027-3727