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- Cleft Lip/Palate
- SYMPTOMS. There is a definite sign of malformation. It may be only the outer
- flesh of the upper lip that extends to the nostril. It may extend through
- the midline of the upper jaw and the roof of the mouth. It may be that only
- the soft palate at the rear of the mouth is involved. This has a slang name
- of "harelip" because it suggests the lip of a rabbit. The opening between
- the nose and mouth prevents suction. The infant may have difficulty nursing.
- CAUSES. At an early stage of prenatal development, the two sides of the face
- fail to properly unite. This occurs in about 1 out of 700 births.
- TREATMENT. A dropper, spoon or cup may be used for immediate feeding.
- .An appliance called an abdurator that closes the cleft while the baby is
- nursing may be used.
- .Not long after birth, surgery may be carried out to close the cleft lip.
- .Reconstruction of cleft palate can usually be done at 1 year to 18 months.
- .In most cases the child will have normal speech, manner and appearance.