Progression of the Baton Devices in Obturpaedic Cleft Treatment

Abstract

Neonates born with clefts of hard and soft palate, particularly those diagnosed with Pierre Robin Sequence, often face life-threatening upper airway obstruction, leading to interrupted or continuous apnoea. Immediate intervention is critical to save their lives. This review presents multiple advancements and modifications in most conservative obturpaedic devices that can be swiftly manufactured and fitted without the need for major anaesthesia and surgical interventions. An in-depth description of the developmental progression is provided of various types of Baton devices, highlighting their specific applications through detailed photographs. The review categorises the described two major Obturpaedic divisions into further four subdivisions, demonstrating their positive outcomes in critical neonatal period immediately after birth. Additionally, we observe that these devices have long-term benefits, including improved tongue position, mandibular micrognathic growth and enhanced sucking and feeding abilities. For upper airway obstruction the clinical implication is extremely important for survival of the neonate. Future research is needed, concerning manufacturing material to be used and non-invasive electronic scanning to have these devices directly manufactured in a laboratory.