An Institution’s Comprehensive Perioperative Management of Cleft-Related Surgeries: Part I—Cleft Lip Repair,Cleft Palate Repair,Pharyngoplasty,& Alveolar Bone Graft

Abstract

For patients born with cleft lip and/or cleft palate, surgical reconstruction(s) during early childhood serve as the foundation for attaining more normal anatomy and function of the involved areas. As a longstanding cleft and craniofacial institution, we have experienced significant changes in perioperative care regimens. Most notably, the evolution of enhanced recovery protocols has transformed how we care for our patients in the perioperative period. Part I of this publication provides an overview of our institution’s peri-operative protocols, for various cleft-related surgeries, including cleft lip repair, cleft palate repair, speech pharyngoplasty, and alveolar bone grafting. Part II will focus on orthognathic surgery and cleft lip/nasal revisions. This comprehensive review may serve as a prototypical guide for other institutions.