Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is phenotypically diverse, making classification difficult. This article explores the evolution of ideas regarding CL/P classification and includes the schemes described by Davis and Ritchie (1922), Brophy (1923), Veau (1931), Fogh-Andersen (1943), Kernahan and Stark (1958), Harkins et al. (1962), Broadbent et al. (1968), Spina (1973), and others. Based on these systems, a longhand structured form is proposed for describing CL/P in a way that is clear, comprehensive, and consistent. A complementary shorthand notation is also described to improve the utility and convenience of this structured form.
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