OBJECTIVEThe study aims to investigate the correlation between total input for a period of 24 h and the daily physiological requirements to develop practical guidelines for postoperative infusion management of cleft patients.

METHODSSixty-three cleft lip and palate patients under three years old who underwent surgery were included in the study. The amount of liquid taken orally as well as intravenous input were recorded for a period of 24 h and compared with the daily physiological requirements. Based on the comparison results, the amount of intravenous infusion was adjusted to match the physiological requirements. Eighty-one patients under one year old were also included to evaluate the effectiveness of the adjustment. The amount of liquid taken orally and intravenous inputs were also recorded and the correlation between total input and urine output analyzed.

RESULTSThe total input of the first group of patients significantly exceeded the physiological requirements. After adjustment, the liquid intake remained at the same level, but the total intake moved closer to the physiological requirements. Statistically significant correlations were observed between liquid taken orally and intravenous intakes, and between total intake and urine formation.

CONCLUSIONSMore precise management of postoperative infusion is necessary for cleft patients. For patients less than six months old, the amount of intravenous infusion should be around 60% of the physiological requirements, whereas that for patients between six months and one year should be around 75%.