The Present Situation of the Cleft Lip and Palate Center of The Japanese Red Cross Maebashi Hospital

—Development of Cooperative Treatment in Gunma Prefecture

Abstract

A team approach is indispensable for the treatment of cleft lip and palate patients from newborn baby to adult. We established the Cleft Lip and Palate Center of the Maebashi Red Cross Hospital in 2009. We have a periodical center meeting which uses the treatment manual and clinical experience to improve the unity and cooperation of the team at the Center. We are able to offer a simple explanation of treatments to patients and families through our website and the annual parents' meeting. Furthermore, the creation of an in-hospital framework has reinforced cooperation throughout Gunma and led to progress in cleft lip and palate treatment. Cooperation between Gunma Children Medical Center and Gunma University Hospital has been strengthened, with various treatments being performed such as bone grafting and pre-nasoalveolar molding. The greatest difficulty in cooperation is with orthodontists, who are scattered in each area. Even if a question and/or problem exists between the operating doctor and the orthodontist, there was no opportunity to talk about it. To maintain the cleft lip and palate treatment policy of the prefecture, we hold a periodical conference for common cooperation. It is a part-time service. In addition, we have appointed an orthodontist who specializes in cleft lip and palate in the Maebashi Red Cross Hospital. This orthodontist coordinates between orthodontists and operating doctors, and is in an instructional position. We consider that we can improve the cleft lip and palate treatment regimen by increasing the cooperation between facilities and medical staff in future.