Our Summary

This study aimed to understand how having a child with a cleft lip and/or palate affects a family’s quality of life, both before and after the child undergoes reconstructive surgery. The study involved 40 families, half with children suffering from a cleft lip, and the other half with children suffering from both a cleft lip and palate. The researchers found that families with children who had both a cleft lip and palate experienced a higher level of impact on their quality of life compared to those with only a cleft lip. After the reconstructive surgery, families with children who had only a cleft lip noticed a decrease in the strain and economic burden, thus improving their quality of life. However, families with children suffering from both conditions did not notice any significant change in their quality of life following the surgery. This suggests that the healthcare system needs to offer better medical care and psychological support, especially for families with children suffering from both a cleft lip and palate.

FAQs

  1. How does having a child with a cleft lip and/or palate impact a family’s quality of life?
  2. Does reconstructive surgery improve the quality of life for families with children suffering from a cleft lip and/or palate?
  3. What additional support do families with children suffering from both a cleft lip and palate need from the healthcare system?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing cleft palate surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain activities that could disrupt the healing process. It is also important for the patient to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection and promote proper healing. Additionally, the doctor may recommend working with a speech therapist to address any speech difficulties that may result from the cleft palate. Finally, the doctor may encourage the patient to seek support from a counselor or support group to help cope with any emotional challenges that may arise during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cleft palate surgery are infants and children born with a cleft lip and/or palate. The surgery is usually recommended to improve the child’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe properly, as well as to improve their overall appearance and quality of life. In some cases, adults with a cleft palate may also be recommended for surgery to improve their speech or to correct any functional issues related to the cleft palate. It is important for patients and their families to discuss the potential benefits and risks of cleft palate surgery with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

  • Before surgery: The family of a child with a cleft palate may experience emotional distress, financial strain, and social stigma. The child may have difficulty feeding, speaking, and breathing properly, leading to further challenges for the family.

  • Day of surgery: The child undergoes the cleft palate repair surgery, which typically takes a few hours. The family may experience anxiety and stress as they wait for the surgery to be completed.

  • Immediately after surgery: The child may experience pain and discomfort, and the family will need to provide support and care to help the child recover. The child may have difficulty eating or drinking, and may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for observation.

  • Weeks to months after surgery: The child will gradually recover and start to see improvements in their ability to eat, speak, and breathe. The family may notice a decrease in the strain and challenges they faced before the surgery.

  • Follow-up appointments: The child will have follow-up appointments with the healthcare team to monitor their progress and ensure the surgical site is healing properly. The family may receive guidance on post-operative care and speech therapy to help the child develop proper speech patterns.

  • Long-term: The child may need additional surgeries or interventions as they grow to address any ongoing issues related to their cleft palate. The family may continue to provide support and care to help the child thrive and live a fulfilling life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about cleft palate surgery include:

  • What are the risks and potential complications of the surgery?
  • What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of speech, eating, and appearance?
  • How long is the recovery process and what can be expected during the recovery period?
  • Are there any alternative treatment options available for cleft palate?
  • What is the long-term follow-up care needed after the surgery?
  • Will there be any scarring or visible signs of the surgery?
  • What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  • How experienced is the surgical team in performing cleft palate surgeries?
  • What support services are available for families before and after the surgery?
  • Will additional surgeries or treatments be needed in the future?

Reference

Authors: Macho P, Bohac M, Fedeles J Jr, Fekiacova D, Fedeles J Sr. Journal: Bratisl Lek Listy. 2017;118(6):370-373. doi: 10.4149/BLL_2017_070. PMID: 28664748