Evaluating the Frequency of Ear Problems in Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate

Background: Orofacial cleft is one of the most common congenital malformations of craniofacial region. Otitis media with effusion causing conductive hearing loss is a considerable challenge for many children with cleft lip and palate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hearing disorders and associated malformations in these patients. Methods: The research population consisted of patients with cleft palate, between years 2012 and 2014, who were referred to Children’s Medical Center and Vali-e-Asr hospital in Tehran, Iran. Otoscopic examination, tympanometry, pure tone audiometry and echocardiography were performed for each patient. Results: Among patients with cleft palate, 73% suffered from hearing disorders. There was no relationship between prevalence of hearing loss and sex, presence of other congenital anomalies and degree of cleft, but middle ear diseases were significantly higher in children younger than 2 years. Among patients with cleft lip or palate, 10% suffered from cleft lip, 63% suffered from cleft palate and 27% suffered from cleft lip and palate. There was at least one congenital anomaly in 53% of patients. Conclusion: This study demonstrates high prevalence of otitis media with effusion and conductive hearing loss in patients with cleft. However, audiologic problems are alleviated when patients become older.