Pediatric Dentistry · single question
What is TRUE about surgical repair of cleft palate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. It is NOT repaired at birth — repair is delayed
B) NOT repaired at birth — CORRECT.
Cleft palate repair (palatoplasty) is typically performed at 9–18 months of age (commonly around 12 months), NOT at birth. The delay allows for: palatal growth, improved surgical field, better anesthesia tolerance. Cleft LIP is repaired earlier (around 3 months, "rule of 10s": 10 weeks, 10 lbs, hemoglobin >10). The two timelines are commonly confused on board exams.
A) At birth: Incorrect — palate repair is deliberately delayed.
C) 3–6 months: This is for cleft LIP repair, not palate.
D) Before 1 month: Too early for any cleft repair.
Cleft palate repair (palatoplasty) is typically performed at 9–18 months of age (commonly around 12 months), NOT at birth. The delay allows for: palatal growth, improved surgical field, better anesthesia tolerance. Cleft LIP is repaired earlier (around 3 months, "rule of 10s": 10 weeks, 10 lbs, hemoglobin >10). The two timelines are commonly confused on board exams.
A) At birth: Incorrect — palate repair is deliberately delayed.
C) 3–6 months: This is for cleft LIP repair, not palate.
D) Before 1 month: Too early for any cleft repair.
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