Evaluation and treatment planning for patients with cleft lip and cleft palate.

The Oral-Facial and Communicative Disorders Program of the University of North Carolina has provided comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and inpatient and outpatient treatment for patients with cleft lip, cleft palate, and related problems for 22 years. A major aspect of the program is the initial diagnostic evaluation of patients and long-term follow-up evaluation of the results of treatment. The Oral-Facial and Communicative Disorders Program acts as both a consultant in providing requested information to referring professionals and agencies and also as a multi- and interdisciplinary treatment center. The nature of the evaluation process and the manner in which findings and recommendations are agreed upon in order that a comprehensive and coherent treatment plan can be established has been presented. It has been stressed that the needs of the patient can best be met by representatives from disciplines important to the diagnosis and management of patients with cleft lip and cleft palate who can meet together, and after discussion and negotiation arrive at a consensus for every aspect of treatment that is required, as well as a time that is most desirable for each patient.