AB084. 12. Systematic review of submucous cleft palate management

Background: Submucous cleft palate (SMCP) is a congenital malformation with specific clinical and anatomical features. The aim of the current study was to review the recent medical literature concerning the diagnosis and management of SMCP.

Methods: A systematic critical review of the scientific literature from the last 15 years using Ovid^®, Wiley Online Library^® and PubMed was conducted.

Results: A total of 1,205 of articles were reviewed on the research engines. Two main criteria of chosen article were: how to diagnose or manage those cases. We identified 34 papers from which we could reliably extract information on best outcome of diagnosis and management. Eight articles of this cohort were acceptable (levels I and II evidence-based article), but only three randomized control trials were found for the treatment of SMCP (level I-B evidence-based medicine).

Conclusions: Multiple modalities are available to diagnose and treat SMCP but each case needs a careful individualized management plan. Early diagnosis is helpful whatever the method used but intervention requires a measured approach although precise evidence base results for management of SMCP are very difficult to obtain.

Keywords: Submucous; cleft palate; management; review