Growth in Children with a Cleft Lip and/or Palate in 8 US Hospitals: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Growth trajectories were slower in the first 4 mo of life, followed by rapid catch-up in weight to 12 mo of age. Children with cleft had a high prevalence of underweight and stunting at all ages. Variability across hospitals suggests that care patterns may affect growth. Close growth monitoring in the first 4 mo in children with cleft may be warranted.Knowledge Transfer Statement:US children with a cleft of the lip and/or palate have substantial growth deficits that vary by cleft type, comorbidities, and across hospitals, particularly in the first 4 mo of life.