Artificial intelligence applications in the diagnosis and management of cleft lip and palate: An updated review

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is one of the most common congenital anomalies, significantly affecting both function and aesthetics while placing a considerable burden on healthcare systems worldwide. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in various medical fields, a thorough evaluation of its role in CL/P management has become essential. Therefore, this review was undertaken to summarize recent clinical applications of AI in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of CL/P. A comprehensive search of PubMed and IEEE Xplore was conducted from January 1, 2015, to May 31, 2025, using combined keywords related to AI and CL/P. Of the 134 records initially identified, 51 full-text articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. In conclusion, AI is driving innovation in CL/P management across multiple domains; however, further evidence from diverse populations and the establishment of clear ethical frameworks are required to ensure its long-term clinical applicability.