Pharyngeal flap for a poorly repaired cleft palate with posterior palatal defect.

OBJECTIVE

Posterior palatal defect after cleft palate (CP) repair is not a rare problem, it may cause velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI). The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a superiorly-based pharyngeal flap (PF) with modification of its end to accommodate the defect in treatment of post-palatoplasty VPI.

METHODS

Thirteen children with VPI due to posterior palatal defect after CP repair were included in this study. PF was used in treatment of all patients, the lower end of the flap was fashioned in a V-shape to accustom the shape of the defect with peeling of its overlying mucosa to enhance wound healing. The PF was inserted deeply into a tunnel created within the defect between the oral and nasal layers of the palate. Pre- and postoperative evaluation using auditory perceptual assessment (APA), nasometric assessment and velopharyngoscopy were performed.

RESULTS

Significant improvement of APA and nasalance score for both oral and nasal sentences was achieved. Also, velopharyngoscopy showed complete velopharyngeal closure in all patients postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

A modified PF is an effective treatment for VPI caused by posterior palatal defect that may be encountered after CP repair.