Our Summary

This study examined how COVID-19 has affected the number of surgeries for cleft lip and palate (CL/P) in Brazil’s public health system. Researchers looked at data from March 2020 to December 2022 and compared it with data from January 2016 to February 2020. They found that in 2020, there was a 44.1% drop in the number of surgeries conducted due to the pandemic. Overall, by the end of 2022, there was a 33.8% shortfall in the number of surgeries performed compared to what was expected. Even though the number of surgeries increased after the pandemic, there were still regional differences. The study suggests that more cooperative efforts are needed to improve services and support for patients.

FAQs

  1. How has COVID-19 impacted the number of cleft lip and palate surgeries performed in Brazil’s public health system?
  2. What was the drop in the number of surgeries conducted in 2020 due to the pandemic, according to the study?
  3. According to the study, what are the proposed solutions to improve services and support for patients who need cleft lip and palate surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about cleft palate surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include keeping the surgical site clean, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain foods or activities that could interfere with the healing process. Additionally, it’s important for patients to communicate any concerns or complications to their healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients with cleft palate are typically recommended for surgery to correct the condition. Surgery is usually recommended for infants between 6 and 12 months of age, but it can also be performed in older children, teenagers, and adults. In addition to cleft palate surgery, patients with cleft lip may also require surgery to correct the lip deformity. The decision to undergo surgery is based on the severity of the cleft palate, the patient’s overall health, and their individual needs and preferences. It is important for patients with cleft palate to be evaluated by a team of specialists, including a surgeon, speech therapist, and orthodontist, to determine the best course of treatment.

Timeline

Before cleft palate surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with cleft palate either during prenatal ultrasound or after birth
  • Patient and family meet with healthcare professionals to discuss treatment options
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, including medical history, physical exam, and possibly imaging tests
  • Patient may receive speech therapy or other interventions to prepare for surgery

After cleft palate surgery:

  • Patient undergoes cleft palate repair surgery, which typically takes place within the first year of life
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days to recover from surgery
  • Patient may require follow-up appointments with healthcare providers to monitor healing and address any complications
  • Patient may need speech therapy or other interventions to address speech and feeding difficulties
  • Patient may require additional surgeries or treatments as they grow to address any lingering issues related to their cleft palate

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after cleft palate surgery can vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of their condition. It is important for patients and families to work closely with healthcare providers to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the best timing for cleft palate surgery for my child?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with cleft palate surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Are there any long-term effects or concerns I should be aware of post-surgery?
  5. What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for cleft palate that we should consider?
  7. How experienced is the surgical team in performing cleft palate surgeries?
  8. Will my child need speech therapy or other interventions after the surgery?
  9. How will the cleft palate surgery impact my child’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe?
  10. Are there any resources or support groups available for families of children undergoing cleft palate surgery?

Reference

Authors: Candido MA, Alonso N. Journal: Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2025 Sep;62(9):1516-1522. doi: 10.1177/10556656241265926. Epub 2024 Jul 23. PMID: 39043227