Rare craniofacial clefts cause significant abnormalities. Along with altering a child’s appearance, these deformities can also lead to serious health issues depending on the location and severity of the facial clefts.
Rare craniofacial clefts can impact how bones form in the face and head, but they can also affect the development of soft tissue. Children typically need substantial treatment, including surgery, to correct deformities. A child’s prognosis usually depends on the severity of the condition and the number of facial clefts.
Categories of rare clefts include:
Doctors also use a numbering system to indicate where clefts are located on the face, and numbers range from 0 to 14.
Because rare facial clefts can impact so many areas of the face, symptoms vary greatly. Indications of this disorder can include:
As for causes, rare craniofacial clefts can accompany other medical conditions, such as Treacher Collins. The condition may also be linked to genetic abnormalities. In some children, there is no known cause of facial deformities.
Surgery is often recommended to address rare craniofacial clefts. When there are serious complications, such as problems with breathing and eating, doctors may recommend treatment immediately. However, surgery may also be delayed until the child’s facial structures develop further.
Surgery is used to address facial abnormalities caused by clefts. This can involve the use of skin and bone grafts to build up the structure of the face. Most children require treatment from a wide range of medical professionals to ensure the best possible outcome.