Top Hospitals in Washington: Your Go-To Guide for Quality Healthcare
Overview
Having a child born with a cleft palate or cleft lip can be an emotional and challenging experience for any parent. Finding the right hospital for repair surgery is crucial to ensure your child receives the highest quality of care. This article provides an in-depth look at the top 10 hospitals in South California that specialize in cleft lip and cleft palate repair.
Understanding Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth defects that occur when a baby's lip or mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. A cleft lip occurs when the tissue that forms the upper lip does not join completely, leaving an opening. A cleft palate occurs when the roof of the mouth, called the palate, does not develop normally, leaving an opening between the mouth and nose. These defects can occur together or separately and require surgical repair.
Origin and Diagnosis
Cleft lip and cleft palate originate very early in pregnancy. As the fetus develops, tissues in the mouth and face naturally fuse together. In babies with clefts, this fusion does not happen properly. Clefts are diagnosed during pregnancy using a cleft lip ultrasound or after birth during a physical exam. The severity of the cleft can vary and may be unilateral, bilateral, or midline.
Available Treatments
The treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate focuses on surgically repairing the defects and improving appearance as well as speech, language, hearing, and other developmental issues. Surgery to repair a cleft lip is usually done between 3 to 6 months of age. Surgery to repair a cleft palate is usually done between 9 months and 12 months of age. Additional surgeries and treatments such as speech therapy may be required as the child grows.
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With comprehensive treatment from a team of doctors and therapists, children with cleft lips and cleft palates can thrive and live full, healthy lives with minimal long-term impacts. Early diagnosis, intervention and family support are key to the best outcomes.
Seattle Children's Hospital
Seattle Children’s Hospital, located in Seattle, Washington, is one of the leading pediatric hospitals in the United States. Affiliated with the University of Washington School of Medicine, it is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services for infants, children, and adolescents. Seattle Children’s excels in numerous pediatric specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital is renowned for its advanced medical treatments, cutting-edge research, and commitment to family-centered care. It serves as a critical resource for pediatric healthcare in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, offering both inpatient and outpatient services designed to meet the unique needs of young patients and their families.
4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
Mary Bridge Children's Hospital
Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a leading pediatric healthcare facility dedicated to providing comprehensive and specialized care for children from infancy through young adulthood. Part of the MultiCare Health System, Mary Bridge Children’s offers a wide range of pediatric services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and neonatology. The hospital is known for its advanced medical treatments, compassionate care, and commitment to supporting the health and well-being of children in the South Puget Sound region and beyond. With a focus on family-centered care and modern facilities, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare tailored to the unique needs of its young patients.
317 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405
MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
MultiCare Deaconess Hospital, located in Spokane, Washington, is a key healthcare facility within the MultiCare Health System. Established in 1896, it is one of the oldest hospitals in the region and serves as a major provider of comprehensive medical services to the residents of Spokane and the surrounding areas. The hospital excels in various specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and neurology. Known for its advanced medical treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to patient-centered care, MultiCare Deaconess Hospital is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of its community.
800 W 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children's Hospital
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital, located in Spokane, Washington, is a premier healthcare facility known for its comprehensive medical services and exceptional patient care. As part of the Providence Health & Services network, it is one of the largest hospitals in the region, serving as a major referral center for the Inland Northwest. The hospital provides a wide range of services, excelling in specialties such as cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and pediatrics. The Children’s Hospital within the facility is dedicated to providing specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents. With advanced medical treatments, state-of-the-art technology, and a commitment to compassionate care, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital is dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for its patients.
101 W 8th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Swedish Medical Center
Swedish Medical Center, located in Seattle, Washington, is a leading healthcare facility and part of the Providence Health & Services network. Established in 1910, it has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Pacific Northwest. Swedish Medical Center offers a wide range of medical services, including advanced treatments in cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, and women’s health. The hospital is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, innovative medical technologies, and commitment to patient-centered care. With multiple campuses and specialized institutes, Swedish Medical Center is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare and improving the health and well-being of its community.
747 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122
Kadlec Regional Medical Center
Kadlec Regional Medical Center, located in Richland, Washington, is a premier healthcare facility within the Providence Health & Services network. Serving the Tri-Cities area and beyond, Kadlec Regional Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of medical services with a focus on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The hospital excels in numerous specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, and women's health. Known for its advanced medical treatments and state-of-the-art facilities, Kadlec is committed to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of its community through innovative healthcare and compassionate service.
888 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352
EvergreenHealth Medical Center
EvergreenHealth Medical Center, located in Kirkland, Washington, is a prominent healthcare facility serving the Eastside communities of the Seattle metropolitan area. Part of the EvergreenHealth system, the hospital is renowned for its comprehensive range of medical services and commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. EvergreenHealth Medical Center excels in specialties such as cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and women’s health. With advanced medical treatments and state-of-the-art facilities, the hospital is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of its patients and the broader community.
12040 NE 128th St, Kirkland, WA 98034
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, located in Vancouver, Washington, is a leading healthcare facility and part of the PeaceHealth network. As one of the largest and oldest hospitals in Southwest Washington, it provides a comprehensive range of medical services to the communities of Vancouver and the greater Portland metropolitan area. PeaceHealth Southwest excels in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and emergency services. Known for its advanced medical treatments, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate care, the hospital is dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of its patients.
400 NE Mother Joseph Pl, Vancouver, WA 98664
Harborview Medical Center
Harborview Medical Center, located in Seattle, Washington, is a renowned public hospital and the only Level I Trauma Center for adults and pediatrics in Washington, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho. Part of the UW Medicine health system and affiliated with the University of Washington School of Medicine, Harborview is known for its comprehensive range of medical services, advanced trauma care, and dedication to serving the community. The hospital excels in various specialties, including burn care, neurosurgery, orthopedics, and emergency medicine. Harborview Medical Center is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, and is recognized for its contributions to medical research, education, and public health.
325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
St. Joseph Medical Center
St. Joseph Medical Center, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a key healthcare facility within the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health system. As one of the largest hospitals in the South Puget Sound region, it provides a wide range of medical services and is known for its high-quality care and advanced treatments. St. Joseph Medical Center excels in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and emergency services. The hospital is dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care and enhancing the health and well-being of the communities it serves through innovative medical practices and comprehensive healthcare services.
1717 S J St, Tacoma, WA 98405
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Cleft Surgery
Experience and Expertise
When seeking treatment for a congenital condition like cleft lip or palate, experience and expertise of the surgeons and staff are paramount. Look for hospitals with dedicated craniofacial units and surgeons who specialize in cleft repair and have performed hundreds of successful procedures. More experience typically means better long-term results and a lower chance of complications.
Range of Services
The top hospitals will offer a comprehensive range of services for cleft patients, from initial diagnosis and treatment planning to follow-up care and revision surgeries if needed. They should have speech pathologists, dentists, orthodontists and psychologists on staff to properly assess and treat all aspects of cleft care. Some may even have designated cleft palate or craniofacial teams to coordinate care.
Latest Techniques and Technology
Hospitals on the cutting edge will utilize the latest techniques like nasoalveolar molding before surgery to improve outcomes. They should have state-of-the-art facilities and tools like 3D imaging, endoscopes and lasers. Minimally invasive procedures, when appropriate, can lead to quicker recovery and less scarring.
Family-Centered Care
The top hospitals recognize that cleft conditions affect the whole family. They should offer resources and support for parents like counseling services, educational materials and support groups. Family involvement in the treatment planning process is ideal. Look for hospitals with child life specialists, social workers and facilities geared toward children.
Choosing a hospital with experience, expertise, advanced techniques and a family-centered philosophy of care will help ensure the best outcome for your child’s cleft surgery. While cost and location may also be factors, quality of care should be the top priority. With the right team and facility, your child will have the best chance at a safe surgery, successful treatment and positive long-term outcome.
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General Cleft lip & Palate Surgery Information:
How much does Cleft lip and palate repair cost?
Cleft lip and palate repair can cost between $5,000 and $13,405 over 12 months. The cost depends on a number of factors, including the patient's insurance coverage, the surgeon's experience, and the type of procedure. Some procedures may be covered by full medical insurance. Source.
According to the CDC, about 1 in every 1,700 babies in the United States is born with cleft palate. Cleft lip and palate are among the most common birth defects in the country, affecting about one in every 700 babies. However, cleft palate is more common in Asian/Pacific, Latinx, or Native American children than in children of other races. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
After surgery, the patient will stay in the hospital for at least one night, and most babies can go home after 1–2 days. The surgeon may prescribe medicines to help make the patient more comfortable and protect against infection. The patient will need a liquid or blenderized diet for about 3 weeks after surgery before starting to eat foods that are hard or crunchy. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
Surgery Resource Information:
Preparing for your child's cleft lip and palate surgery involves several steps and considerations to ensure a safe and successful procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, here's what you should prepare:
Pre-Surgical Considerations
Before the surgery, discuss with your surgeon any pre-surgical considerations, which may include diagnostic testing and medications required before the procedure.
Day-of-Surgery Instructions
Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for the day of the surgery. This typically includes guidelines about fasting, medications, and arrival time at the hospital.
Anesthesia Information
You'll receive detailed information regarding the use of anesthesia during the surgery. Understanding this is crucial for managing expectations about the surgery and post-operative care.
Postoperative Care and Follow-up
Familiarize yourself with the postoperative care requirements and the schedule for follow-up visits. Proper postoperative care is vital for recovery and the best surgical outcome.
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Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly. It's important to have thorough discussions with your child's surgeon to understand all aspects of the surgery, from preparation to recovery. Feel free to ask any questions you might have to ensure you're fully prepared for your child's procedure.
Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly.
Post Surgery Information
After cleft palate surgery, you can expect your child to stay in the hospital for at least one or two days. You can expect the following:
Swelling and Bleeding
Swelling and small amounts of bleeding are normal. You can apply ice to the surgical side of the face on the first day after surgery, and early on the second day only. You can use a mustache dressing for nasal bleeding.
Clear Liquids
Your child can drink clear liquids from a cup only, and should not use utensils or straws.
Stitches
Your child will have stitches in their mouth for several weeks, but some dissolve sooner. You can use your tongue, but do not play with the stitches. Do not pull at the stitches, as they will come out on their own.
Snoring
Your child may snore and sound congested for several weeks. This will go away when the swelling goes down and there is less drainage.
Sleep
It may be harder for your child to sleep as well as before surgery, but sleep habits should return to normal after several weeks.
Diet
For the first two weeks after surgery, give only soft food. This allows time for the palate to heal. You can use a blender or food processor to smooth many table foods to an even, baby-food texture. You can add liquids such as chicken or beef broth, milk, gravy, or smooth sauces to meats and vegetables. You can also use fruit juice to blend with fruit. Avoid hard foods such as toast, biscuits or rusks during healing
To learn more about post cleft lip and cleft palate surgery information, please visit the following resource pages by:
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Nationwide Children's Hospital
Additional Resources: -
Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate Surgery: Repair Steps & Post-op Care
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