Policy on the Management of Patients with Cleft Lip/Plalate and other craniofacial anomalies

Policy on the Management of Patients with Cleft Lip/Plalate and other craniofacial anomalies

Reference Manual: 2009-10

AAPD endorses the statements of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA). In 1991 parameters of care were listed for these patients
1. Management of these patients is best provided by an interdisciplinary team of specialists.
2. Care is best provided by a team with experience in treating a number of patients with craniofacial abnormalities.
3. Best time for a initial evaluation is within the first few weeks of life
4. The team should make every effort to assist the family in adjusting to the birth of the child with various anomalies and the future demands and stress placed on the family.
5. The family should be well informed about treatment decisions and options should be given to encourage participation in these decisions.
6. The team approach to treatment planning recommendations is necessary
7. Care recommended by the team should be provided at the local level as best as possible, and more complex procedures reserved for major medical centers that have experienced providers.
8. Team must be sensitive to extrinsic demographic factors.
9. The team must monitor short-term and long-term outcomes of care.
10. Outcomes must account for satisfaction, psycho-social well-being of the patient as well as the effects on growth, function and appearance.

Dental specialists should also coordinate care between pediatric dentists and orthodontic, oral and maxillofacial surgery and prosthodontic specialists.