Update about the multidisciplinary treatment of cleft lip and palate

Abstract

Cleft of the lip and palate (CLP) are included among the more common congenital anomalies.Knowing about the importance of the disease, the objective of this study is to inform and to help the health professionals to establish the correct diagnosis and treatment. This review is based on the relevant literature published. The source of data was MEDLINE, LILACS database and textbooks. The key words used for searching were cleft lip and palate. The CLP occurs in approximately 1/600 newborn babies worldwide. The prevalence varies considerably across geographic areas and ethinic groupings. The genetic of CLP is highly complex and include single-gene causes, chromosomal disorders, polygeneic interactions, environmental risks and gene/environmental risks There is a considerable variation in the proportion of cases of CLP with congenital anomalies and syndromes. Ultrasonography has been used to detect CLP prenatally. The patients with CLP need multidisciplinary surgical and non-surgical treatment with pediatrician, geneticist, psychologist, nutritionist, odontologist. The adequate treatment of CLP is important because their impact on speech, hearing, appearance and cognition has a prolonged and adverse influence on health and social integration. The costs incurred from CLP in terms of morbidity, health care, emotional disturbance, social and employment exclusion are considerable for affected individuals, their families and society. Researches may increase in the understanding of the cause of CLP, improve the treatment for it and lead ultimately to its prevention.