SINGLE-VISIT FEEDING PLATE REHABILITATION IN AN 8-DAY-OLD INFANT WITH UNILATERAL CLEFT LIP AND PALATE: A CASE REPORT

*Dr. Pallavi Patil, Dr. Shivakumar Puranik, Dr. Smitha M., Dr. Ashwini, Dr. Chandan B.L.

ABSTRACT

Background: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is among the most common congenital craniofacial anomalies and often presents with significant feeding difficulties during infancy. Impaired feeding results from the inability to generate negative intraoral pressure due to communication between the oral and nasal cavities. Case Presentation: An 8-day-old neonate with unilateral cleft lip and palate was referred to the Department of Prosthodontics with complaints of difficulty in feeding. Clinical examination revealed unilateral cleft involvement of the lip, soft palate, and uvula. A primary impression was made using low-fusing impression compound, and a feeding plate was fabricated using self-cure clear acrylic resin in a single clinical visit. The appliance was finished, polished, and secured using dental floss for safety and easy retrieval. Outcome: The feeding plate effectively separated the oral and nasal cavities and improved feeding efficiency. The infant demonstrated improved suckling ability and reduction in feeding difficulties. Conclusion: Early prosthetic intervention using a feeding plate is a simple and effective treatment modality in infants with cleft palate. A single-visit technique provides immediate functional benefits and may improve nutritional status before definitive surgical correction.

Keywords: Feeding plate; cleft lip and palate; neonatal rehabilitation; feeding obturator; prosthodontics.