Prosthetic feeding aids for infants with cleft lip and palate.

A brief review of the literature concerning infants with cleft lip and/or palate has been presented. Twenty-five infants from 15 days to 1 year of age were classified from the prosthetic treatment plan into three groups. The method of approach for each group and the reasons for the changes were described. Two retaining methods were compared. Based on our results, the use of a cloth head-cap as a retaining device is not recommended; a tension-adjustable-side-arm prosthesis is preferred. Attention was also given to the various modifications that can be made on this prosthesis to meet the individual needs of the patient.