Prevalence and Management of Cleft Palate Among Rivers State Indigenes

Cleft palate is a congenital anomaly that can significantly impact feeding, speech, hearing, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to examine the prevalence, demographic patterns, and management outcomes of cleft palate among children in Rivers State, Nigeria. A retrospective descriptive design was employed, reviewing hospital records from selected healthcare facilities spanning 2015 to 2024. A total of 127 cases were identified, comprising 62 females and 65 males, with the highest number of presentations occurring in the 1–5 years age group. Data on diagnosis, surgical interventions, type of repair, and post-operative outcomes were extracted and analyzed. Results indicated that combined cleft palate (CCP) was the most frequent diagnosis (n = 91), followed by isolated cleft palate (ICP, n = 34) and fistula (n = 2). Primary cleft palatoplasty (PCP) was the most commonly performed procedure (n = 97), with von Langenbeck (LV) and intravelar veloplasty (IVVP) being the predominant repair techniques. Most patients were successfully discharged following surgery, with a low overall complication rate (19.7%), and no significant association was found between age group and post-operative complications (χ² = 0.0774, df = 3, p > 0.05). Early childhood presentations and high discharge rates suggest that, where accessible, cleft palate management is largely effective. The study highlights the need for continued early identification, timely surgical intervention, and consistent follow-up to optimize outcomes. It also underscores the importance of improving access to specialized cleft care in underserved and rural communities within Rivers State.