Spanish Terms for Cleft Lip Within the United States

Abstract

Objective

To examine Spanish terms used for “cleft lip” within the United States. Perceived acceptability of these terms was also considered.

Design

An online survey was distributed to Spanish-speaking medical interpreters, clinicians, and parents of children with cleft lip. Survey questions probed demographics, language use, preferred term for “cleft lip,” and perceived acceptability of terms for cleft lip.

Results

There were 158 respondents. Significant differences were observed with profession (P < .001) as 62.5% of medical providers used labio hendido, while 71.8% of interpreters preferred labio leporino. Perceived acceptability of terms was consistent with the term use patterns reported by respondent groups. Significant differences were also observed with geographical region (P = .001) as 90% of respondents from the Northeast United States employed labio leporino, compared to 60% to 70% of respondents from other regions.

Conclusions

Selection and perception of Spanish terms for “cleft lip” may differ across regions and professions. Cleft teams should invite stakeholders to discuss what terms best suit their community.