I recently received an e-mail from a representative at Canica, the makers of DynaCleft, regarding a new tape they created to assist with stretching the skin prior to surgery (for use with both unilateral and bilateral clefts).
Unilateral and Bilateral (respectively) Versions of DynaCleft
According to their website, DynaCleft is/provides:
* NAM compatible
* Easy for parents to use
* Less tension on repair
* Less frequent change-outs
* Better placement of prolabium and premaxilla
* Post-operative tension relief on sutures
* Tape stretches as the mouth moves
Apparently “NAM compatible” means the tape can still be used while NAM is being used (but doesn’t replace the tapes that actually hold the NAM in place). In the words of the manufacturer, “DynaCleft is for stretching the skin of the lip prior to surgery, whether you use NAM or not.”
I can’t vouch for this product firsthand since I never used it, but I think it’s great that it’s out there and it’s worthwhile for you to discuss it with your team. There’s more information about how to order it on Canica’s website.