Sachs S A, Schwartz M H, Drew S J
New York Center for Orthognathic and Maxillofacial Surgery, Lake Success, New York City, USA.
N Y State Dent J. 1998 Aug-Sep;64(7):24-9.
Perhaps no conditions other than cleft lip and palate and oral cancer assemble teams of dentists and physicians intensely focused on treatment and rehabilitation. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon's role is often pivotal especially in the 20-year term of care for the child born with a cleft lip and palate deformity (CLPD). Issues of basic orofacial functions of mastication, respiration and communication overlay human considerations of self-esteem and image. From the moment of birth the child with a CLPD is special and challenged. Early issues concern parent and family acceptance and insuring basic life functions. While not generally a part of the immediate surgical unit, the OMFS often provides surgical consultation, educational and emotional support for the family. A clear picture must be painted of the treatment that will unfold over the next two decades. Realistic optimism is the watchword. Indeed, today there is every reason to anticipate an outcome that will result in a balanced, functional and esthetic face.
或许除唇腭裂和口腔癌之外，没有其他病症能像它们这样让牙医和医生团队如此专注于治疗与康复。口腔颌面外科医生的角色往往至关重要，尤其是在对唇腭裂畸形（CLPD）患儿长达20年的护理期内。咀嚼、呼吸和交流等基本口腔颌面功能问题，叠加了自尊和形象等人文考量。从出生那一刻起，患有CLPD的孩子就很特殊且面临挑战。早期问题涉及父母和家庭的接纳以及确保基本生活功能。虽然口腔颌面外科通常并非直接手术团队的一部分，但它常常为家庭提供手术咨询、教育及情感支持。必须清晰描绘出未来二十年将会展开的治疗情况。现实的乐观主义是关键。的确，如今完全有理由期待一个能带来面容平衡、功能正常且美观的结果。
