Review Article

Temporal Processing Abilities in Children with Repaired Cleft Lip and Palate- A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background and Aim: Children with repaired cleft lip and palate (RCLP) are at increased risk for auditory processing difficulties, particularly in speech perception in noise and temporal auditory processing. Although emerging evidence suggests deficits in central auditory processing in this population, a systematic synthesis of temporal processing abilities remains limited. This review aimed to critically evaluate and synthesize existing evidence on temporal auditory processing abilities in children with RCLP.
Recent Findings: A systematic literature search was conducted independently by two reviewers across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest for studies published between January 2000 and March 2025. Study selection was performed through title, abstract, and full-text screening. Eligibility criteria were defined using the PICOS framework, and risk of bias was assessed for all included studies. Of 1,132 identified records, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. The reviewed evidence consistently demonstrated auditory processing deficits in children with RCLP, with temporal processing identified as the most frequently and severely affected domain. Across studies, children with RCLP showed significantly poorer temporal processing performance compared to craniofacially typical peers.
Conclusion: This review underscores the clinical relevance of temporal auditory processing deficits in children with repaired cleft lip and palate. Unrecognized temporal processing impairments may adversely affect academic performance, reading skills, and speech–language development. Incorporating temporal auditory processing assessment into routine audiological evaluations is therefore recommended for early identification and targeted intervention. Future research should further investigate other subtypes of auditory processing disorders in this population to enhance clinical management strategies.

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Keywords
Cleft Lip Cleft Palate Auditory Perceptual Disorders Children
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1.
Mariswamy P, Prabhu P, Venkateswaran N, Channabasavegowda Y, Shankar A. Temporal Processing Abilities in Children with Repaired Cleft Lip and Palate- A Systematic Review. Aud Vestib Res. 2026;.