A Pediatrician's Guide to Communication Disorders Secondary to Cleft Lip/Palate.

This article describes how different types of clefts affect the child's function and, in particular, the child's communication abilities. This article also describes the evaluation process and various options for the treatment of affected speech. Because these children have many complicated needs over their entire growth period, it is important that they are referred by the pediatrician to a cleft palate/craniofacial team for the best care and best ultimate outcomes.