In this article
- A cleft can exist even when the lip looks normal
- Middle-ear fluid is common
- Long-term multidisciplinary follow-up is needed
Assessment and treatment
- Special feeding technique or equipment
- Palate repair at the planned stage
- Hearing tests, ear care and speech therapy
At a glance
Definition: A gap in the roof of the mouth can affect feeding, middle-ear fluid, hearing and speech development.
Key takeaways
- A cleft can exist even when the lip looks normal
- Middle-ear fluid is common
- Long-term multidisciplinary follow-up is needed
Clinical steps
- Special feeding technique or equipment
- Palate repair at the planned stage
- Hearing tests, ear care and speech therapy
Red flags: Breathing difficulty, blue colour or inadequate intake during feeds needs urgent paediatric assessment.
Quick FAQ: When should I see an ENT specialist?
Breathing difficulty, blue colour or inadequate intake during feeds needs urgent paediatric assessment.
How I assess this in clinic
I first clarify duration, severity, whether symptoms are one-sided or bilateral, and their effect on daily life. I then perform a focused ENT examination and compare the findings with a cleft can exist even when the lip looks normal.
Endoscopy or audiometry is not required for everyone. I advise endoscopy when the nose, sinus, throat or voice box needs direct assessment, and audiometry/tympanometry when hearing or middle-ear function is in question.
A common misconception is that every ENT problem needs an antibiotic or an operation. Treatment should instead follow the diagnosis, functional impact, examination findings and evidence-based indications.
Do not wait when: Breathing difficulty, blue colour or inadequate intake during feeds needs urgent paediatric assessment.
For patient education; not a substitute for individual diagnosis or treatment.