Effects of Von Langenbeck palatoplasty on facial growth.

The conclusion derived from this study is that the Von Langenbeck palastoplasty as performed on the cleft individuals evaluated here did not produce gross discrepancies in the dento-facial structures or relations examined. On the average, the skeletal and profile relations of the maxilla to the mandible can be considered within the acceptable range. With this in mind, speech becomes a more crucial parameter in evaluating the over-all results of this procedure. Other dental parameters, e.g., incidence of crossbite, arch collapse, etc., need to be examined if a complete evaluation of the results of palatal surgery is described. This should be done after all orthodontic treatment has been completed and all retainers removed.