Clinical study of otological manifestations among children with cleft palate from a tertiary care teaching hospital

Background: Despite having a well documented relationship of cleft palate with middle ear effusion, little data exists regarding otopathology in Indian children with cleft palate. Objectives: Therefore, the present study was planned with an objective to determine the various otological manifestations that occur in patients with cleft palates seeking care at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Material and methods: The present study was carried out in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of a tertiary care teaching hospital of northern India during June 2012 to May 2014 among 30 cases of cleft palate. On the first visit, history and thorough clinical examination are undertaken. Next, common and special investigations are undertaken to evaluate and assess the status of disease. X-ray mastoids, Pure tone audiometry and Tympanometry were also carried out. Results: The ears are found affected in 86.7%, 60.1% ears had an intact but dull tympanic membrane whereas 16.7% ears had CSOM with a central perforation. On pure tone audiogram (n=18) 33.33% had a hearing loss in one ear and 44.44% had a hearing loss in both ears in the form of a mild or moderate degree of conductive deafness. On tympanogram, 23.3% had an ‘A’ type of tympanogram whereas 44 ears had a `B’ type of tympanogram indicative of recurrent effusions in the middle ear. Majority from this sub-group >80% had associated conductive hearing loss-mild to moderate degrees. Conclusion: Cleft palate individuals should always be evaluated for possible otological manifestations.