Teaming Up to Deliver First-of-its-Kind Specialized Care

The University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry and pediatric specialists at the University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital, Fairview recently joined forces to offer interdisciplinary care for children with Velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS), the most common syndrome associated with cleft palates.

VCFS occurs when a small part of chromosome 22 is missing or has been deleted. It is the most common chromosomal condition next to Down syndrome; roughly 1 in 2,000 to 4,000 children are born with this syndrome. It is known by several different names, including DiGeorge syndrome.  Symptoms associated with VCFS include behavioral and mental health disorders, cognitive and speech-language delay, and cardiovascular defects.

Now, under one roof, specialists in cardiology, genetics, rheumatology/immunology, psychiatry, plastic surgery, speech-language pathology, otolaryngology, audiology, nursing, and dentistry have formed an integrated team that provides care for patients at the Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Clinics. 

“This team approach provides comprehensive clinical care and allows the specialists to meet face-to-face at the conclusion of the visit to individualize and prioritize care for each child,” says Lisa Schimmenti, M.D., pediatrician and clinical geneticist at University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital, Fairview.

The Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Clinics, located in the School of Dentistry, have served children with craniofacial anomalies for 44 years. Today, patients and their families are able to schedule a visit with a variety of specialists in one day instead of having to come back for multiple appointments.  The team meets after seeing the patients and develops a comprehensive, interdisciplinary treatment plan.

In order to continue providing top-notch care for these patients, researchers at the University continue making strides in their labs. For example, Tonya White, M.D., studies the brain structure and function in individuals with VCFS, and Wendy Looman, Ph.D., investigates the coordination of healthcare to improve the quality of life for children with VCFS and their families. Anna Thurmes, M.A., is also completing her dissertation on the psychosocial impact of VCFS on families. 

For more information about the Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Clinics at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, contact Anna Thurmes, M.A., at 612-626-3478.