Cleft lip/jaw/palate

The diagnosis of cleft lip/jaw/palate of a newborn child is, at first, shocking for parents. Ultimately, this means a disruption of facial development for the child. However, with an occurrence rate of 1 in 500 births, cleft lip/jaw/palate is the most common deformity in the mouth, jaw and face area. The causes are multi-layered and range from genetic mutations to completely unexplained outer and inner influences. The extent of the cleft formation varies from child to child; generally, the upper lip/nose region, upper jaw and hard and soft palate (velum) are affected. This results in serious consequences for growth, aesthetics, drinking and swallowing function, as well as hearing and speaking.

Pre-birth consultation

Already before the birth of a child, prenatal diagnostics with ultrasound enable us to answer parents’ questions. In a personal meeting with the parents, we explain our proven and interdisciplinary treatment concept at the Regensburg University Hospital. Our common goal is the precise and timely closure of the different cleft sections so that your child can develop normally.

Immediately after birth

When there is a cleft formation in the area of the hard and soft palate, we make a drink/function plate. This plate made of dental plastic is used to separate the oral and nasal cavities, prevent the backward displacement of the tongue and assist in the shaping of the upper jaw segments. 

Interdisciplinary treatment concept

• 4th to 6th month: closure of the cleft in the area of the lips and nasal vestibule with correct restoration of the musculature and the prolabium/premaxilla border. Also an ear inspection.
• 9th to 12th month: cleft palate closure with precise joining of the musculature of the soft palate. Also a re-inspection of the ear.
• 1st to 6th year: observation of the tooth eruptions, hearing test, language development and possibly speech therapy.
• 6th to 12th year: observation of second dentition; orthodontic treatment and/or speech therapy if necessary.
• 9th to 11th year: cleft jaw closure allowing for the eruption of the teeth bordering the cleft; orthodontic treatment and/or speech therapy if necessary.
• Completion of growth: Possible nose correction and, if necessary, maxillofacial surgery and/or orthodontic treatment.

Treatment in adulthood

In addition to early treatment of cleft formations, follow-up treatment for adults plays an important role. There may be a recurrence (recrudescence) that requires a follow-up surgical procedure. We also offer aesthetic corrections of surgical scars in our hospital. In rare cases, cleft types are left untreated in childhood, and patients do not have the chance to receive treatment until adulthood. These often difficult to treat cases are also handled in our clinic.

Consultation hours

We will be happy to respond to your questions and concerns during our CLJP consultation hours.