Cleft Lip and Palate Diagnosis

If the genetic tests are normal and no other malformations have been seen at the ultrasound scan, the cleft lip palate is most likely an isolated finding. The couple will be offered consultation with a team of experts to discuss and determine the best treatment plan. The team of experts includes a plastic surgeon, speech therapist, dentist, orthodontist, otolaryngologist, audiologist, geneticist, pediatrician and feeding specialist.

However in approximately 10-15% of individuals with cleft lip and/or palate, it is a part of a syndrome. If a genetic etiology is established by prenatal genetic testing (e.g. a chromosome abnormality by array CGH and/or karyotyping) the couple can be informed about this specific genetic disease including its natural history, prognosis, potential treatment, recurrence risk, etc. If a severe genetic disease is diagnosed prenatally the couple will be informed about the possibility to apply for a late termination of the pregnancy.