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Prenatal counseling for cleft lip and palate
M S Matthews1, M Cohen, M Viglione
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Camden, USA.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|January 15, 1998
Summary
Prenatal diagnosis of cleft lip and palate is possible via ultrasound. Families receiving this diagnosis often report inadequate information and find consultations with cleft teams highly valuable.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Obstetrics
- Genetics
Background:
- Prenatal diagnosis of cleft lip and palate (CLP) can be identified during routine or high-resolution obstetrical ultrasounds.
- Families or obstetricians may seek plastic surgery consultation following a prenatal CLP diagnosis.
- Understanding the characteristics and needs of this patient population is crucial for effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the population of newborns referred to a cleft program with a prenatal diagnosis of CLP.
- To assess the adequacy of information provided to families regarding cleft diagnoses.
- To evaluate the perceived value of prenatal consultations with a cleft team.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among families referred to a cleft program between 1990 and 1994 with a prenatal CLP diagnosis.
- Data collected included the incidence of different cleft types and follow-up information from participating families.
- Statistical analysis (chi-square test) was used to compare cleft incidences.
Main Results:
- Of 80 referred newborns, 13 had a prenatal CLP diagnosis.
- Children with prenatal diagnoses showed a significantly higher incidence of bilateral cleft lip and palate (53.8%) compared to the general population (28.7%, p < 0.03).
- No isolated cleft palates were identified prenatally; only one-third of families felt adequately informed by their obstetrician or ultrasonographer.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal diagnosis of CLP is feasible but may be associated with a higher proportion of bilateral cases.
- There is a significant need for improved communication and information dissemination regarding CLP diagnoses to expectant families.
- Prenatal consultations with specialized cleft teams are perceived as valuable and beneficial for affected families.