Anthropometric and Physiologic Parameters in Cleft Neonates: A Hospital-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial development
• Neonatal anthropometry
• Cleft lip and palate research

Background:

• Oro-facial morphology is significantly impacted in neonates with cleft lip and palate.
• Initial evaluation of neonate body and maxillary arch dimensions is vital for treatment planning and growth prediction in cleft patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comparatively evaluate anthropometric and physiologic parameters of cleft and non-cleft neonates.
• To establish baseline data for cleft neonate management and growth prediction.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 88 neonates (44 cleft, 44 non-cleft) aged 0-30 days.
• Measurement of body weight, length, head length, head circumference, and maxillary arch dimensions.
• Digital sliding calipers used for maxillary arch measurements; statistical analysis via independent t-test and ANOVA with Bonferroni correction.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences observed in birth weight (p < 0.0001), head length (p < 0.01), head circumference (p < 0.007), and maxillary arch dimensions (p < 0.0001) between cleft and non-cleft neonates.
• Cleft neonates exhibited distinct anthropometric and physiologic variations compared to their non-cleft counterparts.

Conclusions:

• Cleft neonates present significant anthropometric and physiologic variations from non-cleft neonates.
• These findings underscore the importance of early and comprehensive assessment for effective management of cleft lip and palate cases.