Comparing sleep positions in infants with cleft palate

Comparing the Effectiveness of Side-lying Sleep Positioning to Back-lying at Reducing Oxygen Desaturation Resulting From Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in Infants With Cleft Palate

Not applicable Interventional Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust · NCT04478201

This study tests whether sleeping on their side or back helps infants with cleft palate breathe better and sleep more soundly.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment244 (estimated)
Ages21 Days to 35 Days
SexAll
SponsorManchester University NHS Foundation Trust Government
Locations11 sites (Birmingham and 10 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04478201 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of side-lying versus back-lying sleep positioning in infants diagnosed with cleft palate to reduce oxygen desaturation caused by obstructive sleep apnea. The trial will involve monitoring oxygen saturation levels during sleep and assessing sleep quality through parental questionnaires. The study will also involve co-developing national recommendations for sleep positioning in collaboration with parents. Infants aged 3 to 5 weeks will be randomly assigned to one of the two sleep positions for monitoring purposes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are infants aged 3 to 5 weeks diagnosed with an isolated cleft palate.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with associated cleft lip, born prematurely, or with significant cardiorespiratory issues.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a simple and effective intervention to improve sleep quality and cognitive development in infants with cleft palate.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have indicated varying recommendations for sleep positioning, but this specific approach comparing side-lying to back-lying in infants with cleft palate is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Infants diagnosed with an isolated CP under the care of a collaborating centre
* Infants who are 3 to 5 weeks of age when monitored
* Parents willing to give consent and able to complete study procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

* Infants with associated cleft lip
* Infants born prematurely (before 37 week gestation or up to and including 36 weeks and 6 days)
* Infants with cardiorespiratory disease
* Infants requiring an intervention to assist with breathing (nasopharyngeal airway)
* Infants requiring an intervention to assist with feeding (nasogastric tube)

Where this trial is running

Birmingham and 10 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obstructive Sleep ApneaCleft PalateSleepSleep positionInfants with cleft palate
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.