Knowledge assessment for the management of patients with cleft lip and palate among dental and medical interns and practitioners in Medina, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is a common developmental anomaly in the head-and-neck region that can be syndromic or nonsyndromic. Various therapeutic procedures can be addressed to manage patients with CLP; hence, awareness about CLP is warranted. Aims: This study aims to identify the level of knowledge among dental and medical health-care professionals regarding the management of patients with CLP in Medina. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online-based self-administrated questionnaire. The sampling was convenient with snowball effect; the questionnaire was sent to eligible participants (n = 228). It was divided into four sections regarding demographic data and knowledge questions regarding the management of patients with cleft lip/palate. Results and Discussion: About 44.3% disagreed that CLP is always associated with syndromes, whereas only 34.65% and 36.4% were aware of a method to examine for the presence of transverse and/or anteroposterior restriction of maxillary growth, respectively. The responses highlighted moderate level of knowledge regarding the relationship between CLP, associated problems, and the treatment needed. The total knowledge score was 26.83 (7.65) and was significantly higher among participants in the dental field compared to other participants in the medical field (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study highlighted the need to enhance the level of knowledge regarding CLP among dental and medical health-care professionals. Early diagnosis is essential for better treatment outcomes and could influence good prognosis and enhance the quality of life of patients. Hence, improving the knowledge regarding CLP and its management is warranted.

Keywords

• awareness
• cleft lip
• cleft palate
• knowledge