Center for Cleft and Craniofacial Care
To get the best outcome, every cleft and craniofacial disorder requires diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care from an experienced team of specialists. At Phoenix Children’s, we work closely with you to ensure excellence for you and your family every step of the way.
Cleft and Craniofacial Diagnosis
Before we can treat a cleft or craniofacial disorder, we first must diagnose it. A correct craniofacial diagnosis leads to the best possible treatment. We use the following tests to diagnose a cleft or craniofacial disorder:
- Blood tests
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Dental X-rays
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
- Physical exams
- Skull X-rays
- Ultrasounds during pregnancy
We can detect many of these conditions through ultrasounds that are performed during pregnancy. If you receive a diagnosis while pregnant, our plastic surgeon will meet with you and other care team members to discuss care and outline a treatment plan. This consultation is called an “in-utero consultation.”
Craniofacial Surgery
If a newborn is diagnosed with a cleft or craniofacial disorder, we work with a team of specialists to get the newborn the treatment needed as soon as possible. Then we plan surgeries to correct any abnormalities of the newborn’s head or face.
Adult Cleft and Craniofacial Disorders
Although most cleft or craniofacial disorders are diagnosed and treated in infants, adults with a cleft lip or cleft palate may face unique challenges and have specialized treatment needs. Phoenix Children’s Center for Cleft and Craniofacial Care team is here for adults too.
We work with you to evaluate any issues that we can correct. Then, we offer treatment options, both cosmetic and functional.