Medicine

Ryan K. Badiee, Daniella M. Cordero, R. Tse, Jessica L Meikle

2026.2.1Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America

DOI: 10.1016/j.coms.2025.12.001

tlooto Summary

Key considerations include perioperative best practices, speech and hearing management, genetic evaluation, and psychosocial support to ensure optimal long-term functional, esthetic, and mental health outcomes.

Abstract

This article outlines a multidisciplinary clinical pathway for the care of children with cleft lip and/or palate, spanning prenatal diagnosis through adolescence. It details coordinated roles of surgical, medical, dental, and allied health providers; emphasizes standardized protocols for cleft lip, palate, and alveolar repair; and highlights strategies for quality improvement and pathway maintenance. Key considerations include perioperative best practices, speech and hearing management, genetic evaluation, and psychosocial support to ensure optimal long-term functional, esthetic, and mental health outcomes.

Citation format

BADIEE, Ryan K., et al. Multidisciplinary care considerations for children with facial clefts. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America, 2026, 38(2): 159–176.