Satisfaction with the Quality of Life of Parents of Cleft Lip and Palate Patients Aged 8-12 Years, Tawanchai Center, Northeastern, Thailand.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

This study focuses on children aged 8-12 with cleft lip and palate, a critical period for surgical and orthodontic interventions that can significantly impact facial development and psychosocial well-being. Assessing the satisfaction and quality of life of patients and their parents during this stage can provide valuable insights to optimize care and support outcomes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among parents and 32 patients with unilateral and bilateral complete cleft lip and palate who received continuous treatment at the Tawanchai Center during the year 2024. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the THAICLEFT quality of life Questionnaire, and a patient self-assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Psychosocial satisfaction was compared using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Among 32 participants, patients (68.75% male, mean age 10.38 ± 1.52 years) with predominantly unilateral cleft lip and palate (68.75%) reported high satisfaction across five psychosocial domains (mean 4.00 ± 1.26). Parents reported highest satisfaction with service quality (4.65 ± 0.52) and moderate-to-high satisfaction across medical, cost, and psychosocial domains (means 3.54-4.21). Family impact remained low (2.25 ± 1.71). Communication ability showed significant between group differences (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Parents reported high satisfaction in three domains, while patients showed high satisfaction in five psychosocial aspects. The findings from this study will be used to improve patient and family care, enhancing their overall quality of life.