Cleft lip and palate: current management

Cleft lip and palate are the most common presenting congenital conditions of the face and cranial bones. This article describes current understanding of the aetiology and presentation of the deformity and management of the child from prenatal diagnosis until maturity. Principle concerns include correction of the physical defect with the best possible functional and cosmetic outcome, optimal speech correction, satisfactory feeding and hearing, and dental and orthodontic health. The value of comprehensive management of all aspects of care within a multidisciplinary team including clinical psychology support for child and family is discussed.