[Handicap caused by clefts of the lips, jaws and/or palate and velum].

Due to clefts of the lips, jaws and/or palate and velum no normal structures are formed in the orofacial system, and thus all processes of growth and development as well as function are disturbed to an extent varying with the extension of the malformation. Integration of these children in kindergartens or regular schools is impossible unless surgery is performed. Apart from qualified interdisciplinary initial care the acknowledgement of these children as severely handicapped persons in accordance with the law could be of great help and relief for the parents. The German law for securing the integration of severely handicapped persons in work, profession and society (Schwerbehindertengesetz) pays particular attention to severely handicapped children. The basic considerations in writing medical opinions are described.