Cleft Palate Birth Injuries
Cleft lip and palate are birth defects that occur in the upper lip and the roof of the mouth. This is also known as cleft palate, craniofacial defect, or harelips. A cleft lip could be just a small notch in the lip or it may also be a complete split in the lip that goes to the entire base of the nose. A cleft palate can be on one or both sides of the roof of the mouth and in some conditions it may go the full length of the palate.
Causes
There are various causes for cleft lip and palate. Problems with genes passed down from one or both parents, drugs, viruses, or other toxins can all cause such birth defects. Cleft lip and palate may occur along with other syndromes or birth defects.
A cleft lip and palate can affect the appearance of one’s face, and may lead to problems with feeding and speech, as well as ear infections. About 1 out of 2,500 people have a cleft palate.
Symptoms
- Misaligned teeth
- Change in nose shape (amount of distortion varies)
Problems that may be present because of a cleft lip or palate are:
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia and other medications
- Abnormal connection between the mouth and nose
- Bleeding
- Breathing issues
- Failure to gain weight
- Feeding problems
- Flow of milk through nasal passages during feeding
- Incorrect growth of bones in the middle of the face
- Infection
- Misaligned teeth
- Poor growth
- Recurrent ear infections
- Speech difficulties
Treatment
Surgery to close the cleft lip is often done at when the child is between 6 weeks and 9 months old. The drug Topamax (topiramate) is linked to oral clefts in newborns who’s mothers took the drug during pregnancy. As a result of the new Topamax cleft palate risks, the FDA will be reclassifying the drug Topamax. At Potts Law Firm we have a team of attorneys to help you if you believe your newborn was affected by Topamax. There is a limited time to pursue legal action against parties responsible and seek compensation for your child’s medical expenses, pain and suffering, and surgery. To learn more about how Potts Law Firm can help, call 866-311-2230 for a free consultation.
