Prevalence of feeding disorders in children with cleft palate only: A retrospective study

Objectives: The purpose of this study in children with cleft palate only (CPO) is to (1) explore the prevalence of feeding problems on a retrospective basis, (2) investigate rates of nasogastric (NG) feeding, (3) examine the prevalence of associated disorders and/or syndromes (AssD/S), (4) investigate if there are certain risk factors associated with feeding difficulties, NG feeding, and failure of breastfeeding, and (5) investigate the effect of palatoplasty on feeding difficulties. Materials and methods: In total, 90 questionnaires were included in this study. The medical records were reviewed. Results: Feeding difficulties were reported in 67 % (n = 60) of all cases. NG feeding was given in 32 % (n = 28) of all children. Forty-nine children (54 %) have associated malformations. There is no significant relation for gender, gestational age, and birth weight as risk factors for feeding difficulties, NG feeding, and failure of breastfeeding. The severity of the cleft is significantly related to the prevalence of AssD/S. After palatoplasty, feeding difficulties improved in 79 % of the CPO children. Conclusions and clinical relevance: First, our results clearly indicate that children with CPO are at high risk of developing feeding difficulties (67 %); NG feeding is often necessary (32 %). Second, our results also indicate that the more severe the cleft, the more likely the chance for AssD/S. Third, the severity of the cleft is significantly related to the prevalence of AssD/S. Fourth, there is no significant relation for gender, gestational age, and birth weight as risk factors for feeding difficulties, NG feeding, and failure of breastfeeding. Fifth, improvement of feeding difficulties after surgery supports the importance of the soft palate closure in relation to sucking patterns and feeding skills.