Consultant in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
What are Labio-Maxillo-Palatine Clefts?
Cleft lip and palate ( cheilognatopalatoschizis ) are among the most common congenital malformations of the face, affecting the upper lip, jaw, hard palate, soft palate, nose, and even hearing. They involve a unilateral or bilateral lack of substance and are the second most common congenital malformation in newborns.
Types of Orofacial Clefts
There are several types of orofacial clefts, each with specific characteristics:
- Cleft lip (cheiloschizis) – also known as a "hare lip", can affect part or all of the lip, including the nostril.
- Cleft palate – can be isolated (without affecting the lip) or can affect the hard palate, partially or completely (staphylo-urano-schisis).
Treatment of Labio-Maxillo-Palatine Clefts
Treatment for these malformations depend on the severity of the cleft, the child's age, and possible associated syndromes. A personalized treatment plan is essential for optimal recovery.
Treatment Stages:
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Family counseling – It begins during pregnancy, with the intrauterine detection of the malformation, in collaboration with the gynecologist.
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Treatment Preparation – Includes advice on feeding, feeding techniques, and the use of Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) devices.
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Surgical interventions – They take place in several stages:
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Lip plasty – in the first months of life.
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Palate and alveolar process plasty – shortly after lip plasty.
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Orthodontic treatments and esthetic and functional surgery – as the child grows.
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Bone grafting and orthognathic surgery – in adulthood, if necessary.
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The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach
The treatment of orofacial clefts requires the collaboration of a multidisciplinary medical team , consisting of:
Surgeons specializing in clefts and malformations
Orthodontists
Anesthesiologists and ENT specialists
Neonatologists and pediatricians
Geneticists, speech therapists and psychologists
This approach represents the "gold standard" in the treatment of orofacial clefts, preventing complications that would require multiple surgeries.
Children's Life After Treatment
Children who receive the correct and complete treatment can have a perfectly normal and healthy life. The support of the family and the medical team is essential for the child's complete recovery and social integration.
🌐 For more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Armencea Gabriel!
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