The cleft seal for bottle-feeding--A report on case studies

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial Malformations
• Neonatal Care
• Medical Device Development

Background:

• Cleft lip and palate are common congenital craniofacial malformations.
• Feeding difficulties are a primary challenge for neonates with cleft palate.
• Limited access to feeding aids in developing regions exacerbates feeding issues.

Observation:

• A simple, inexpensive device called the cleft seal was developed for feeding neonates with cleft palate.
• The device, made of silicone or thermoform plastic, fits onto a feeding bottle.
• It features a spoon-like projection to cover the teat, separating the oral and nasal cavities during feeding.

Findings:

• The cleft seal significantly increased nutritional intake in neonates.
• Feeding times were reduced when using the cleft seal.
• Parents reported no nasal regurgitation, and the device promotes normal orofacial development.

Implications:

• The cleft seal's low cost and ease of use make it highly suitable for resource-limited neonatal centers.
• It offers a practical solution for improving nourishment and supporting development in infants with cleft palate.
• Facilitates better care for newborns with cleft palate, especially in underserved or rural areas.