Craniofacial Team

Information for parents and carers

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Clinical Nurse Specialist:

The role of the clinical nurse specialist is to be directly involved with craniofacial patients
and their families from the first clinic visit admission, through surgery to discharge. The
nurse acts as a link between patients, parents and the multidisciplinary craniofacial
team.

Speech and Language Therapist:

The role of the speech and language therapist is to assess and manage speech,
language and feeding difficulties that are related to the craniofacial condition.

Clinical Geneticist:

The clinical geneticist is part of the team because some craniofacial conditions are
caused by changes in genes and some may run through the family.

Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon (ENT):

Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon (ENT): The ENT surgeon will assess and manage
your child’s airway, breathing and surgical management of any hearing loss.

Clinical Psychologist:

The clinical psychologist’s role within the team is to offer assessments and support to
children, young people and families in relation to a variety of issues, such as
development, appearance concerns, bullying and teasing, making decisions about treatment and surgery and preparation and support pre and post- surgery.

Ophthalmological Surgeon

The ophthalmological surgeon assesses and treats any eye problems relating to the
craniofacial conditions. Where appropriate, the team may also liaise with local services
that may be the most appropriate for overseeing and providing the on-going care
of your child

Respiratory Team

The respiratory team assesses and investigates your child’s sleep pattern and
breathing.

Orthodontics:

The orthodontics will assess and manage the way the teeth and jaw grow.

Neurosurgeon

The Neurosurgeon is involved in the treatment of Craniofacial conditions that may
or may not affect the growth of the brain.

Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgery aims to correct complex cosmetic and functional abnormalities of both
soft tissue and bone using a wide range of reconstructive techniques.

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.

This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.