Our Summary

This research project, called the Scandcleft Project, was done to find the best surgical procedure for treating a condition called unilateral cleft lip and palate, where one side of the mouth or lip is split or not fully formed. The project involved three different trials, in which a new surgical technique was tested against the existing procedures used in various medical centers in Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and the UK.

The researchers studied 448 patients who were undergoing surgery to repair this condition. They recorded how long the surgery took, how much bleeding occurred, what complications arose, and if the surgical repair came apart afterwards. They also checked if any additional surgeries were needed to correct speech problems caused by the cleft, and if any holes formed in the roof of the mouth (known as a fistula).

The results showed no significant differences in bleeding, infection, anesthesia complications, or the length of hospital stay for the first trial. However, the second and third trials showed that patients treated with the new technique (Arm A) had more breathing issues than those treated with the traditional techniques (Arms C or D). The third trial also showed a higher rate of fistula and surgeries to correct speech problems in patients treated with the new technique.

In conclusion, the study suggests that no surgical technique is definitively better than the others. However, it seems that surgeons who were still learning the new technique experienced more issues during surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the Scandcleft Project?
  2. What were the findings of the trials in the Scandcleft Project?
  3. Did the new surgical technique introduced in the Scandcleft Project prove to be more effective than the existing ones?

Doctor’s Tip

Therefore, it is important for patients to discuss all available options with their doctor and choose a surgeon who is experienced in the specific technique being considered. Additionally, patients should follow all post-operative care instructions provided by their medical team to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cleft palate surgery are those with unilateral cleft lip and palate, where one side of the mouth or lip is split or not fully formed. These patients may experience difficulties with feeding, speech, and dental development if the cleft is not repaired. Surgery is often recommended early in life to correct the cleft and improve the patient’s quality of life. The decision to undergo surgery is typically made by a team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, speech therapists, and orthodontists, who will assess the individual’s specific needs and determine the best course of treatment.

Timeline

Before cleft palate surgery, a patient typically undergoes consultations with a surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes. They may also undergo preoperative testing and imaging to assess their condition. On the day of surgery, the patient will be admitted to the hospital and prepared for the procedure, which typically takes a few hours.

After cleft palate surgery, the patient will be monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure there are no complications. They may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty eating or speaking in the immediate postoperative period. The patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns. Speech therapy may be recommended to help with any speech difficulties caused by the cleft palate. Over time, the patient’s speech and appearance should improve as the palate heals and any necessary revisions are made.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different surgical techniques available for cleft palate repair, and which one do you recommend for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with cleft palate surgery?
  3. How long will the surgery take and what is the expected recovery time?
  4. Will I need additional surgeries or treatments after the initial cleft palate repair?
  5. How will the surgery affect my ability to speak, eat, and breathe?
  6. What type of follow-up care will be necessary after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after cleft palate surgery?
  8. How experienced are you in performing cleft palate surgeries and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients you have treated for cleft palate?
  10. Are there any support groups or resources available for individuals undergoing cleft palate surgery and their families?

Reference

Authors: Rautio J, Andersen M, Bolund S, Hukki J, Vindenes H, Davenport P, Arctander K, Larson O, Berggren A, Åbyholm F, Whitby D, Leonard A, Lilja J, Neovius E, Elander A, Heliövaara A, Eyres P, Semb G. Journal: J Plast Surg Hand Surg. 2017 Feb;51(1):14-20. doi: 10.1080/2000656X.2016.1254646. PMID: 28218552