Cleft Palate
Cleft palate is one of the most frequent birth defects in the United States that occurs without any other major defects. Cleft palate is a separation in the roof of the mouth that occurs when it fails to join, or fuse, prior to birth.
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Causes of Cleft PalateShow
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No single cause of cleft palate has been identified. Certain risk factors may increase chances of cleft palate.
- Genetic factors
- Smoking during pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Substance abuse
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Diagnosis of Cleft PalateShow
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Cleft palate is usually diagnosed at birth. Sometimes the condition is identified before birth on an ultrasound. If the cleft palate is hard to see, you may notice that your baby has trouble feeding.
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Treatment of Cleft PalateShow
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Surgery is required to correct your child’s cleft palate. It is usually performed when your child is between 9 months and 2 years of age, and may require several stages of repair.
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Associated ComplicationsShow
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Possible long-term problems include speech problems, crooked teeth, frequent head colds and frequent ear infections.
Because of the cleft palate, babies are unable to suck or nurse effectively. You will need to use special feeding techniques and/or special bottles and cups for your baby.