A Malaysian National Cleft Registry: An Orthodontic Point of View

Abstract

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is one of the most prevalent birth defects. CLP can have a profound physical impact on the child and a psychological impact on both the parents and child. The systemic collection and audit of data on CLP has traditionally been an integral part of comprehensive cleft care. This requires the development of a national cleft registry. This article describes the current orthodontic cleft care, the benefits of a registry and assesses the challenges faced in developing a national cleft registry in Malaysia from an orthodontic point of view.