Palatal reconstruction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The palate is a critical structure, playing pivotal roles in speech, swallowing, and mastication. Reconstruction of the palate is among the most difficult challenges faced by head and neck reconstructive surgeons. The primary aims of this review are to catalog the evolution of the classification systems for palatal defects, discuss decision making surrounding the various options for hard palate reconstruction, and address the special challenges and techniques involved in soft palate reconstruction.

RECENT FINDINGS: The Okay Classification System has become the standard by which most hard palatal defects are assessed. Free tissue transfer seems to be becoming an increasingly important therapeutic modality for many hard and soft palate defects.

SUMMARY: Success in the management of palatal defects depends on accurate appreciation of the size and functional extent of each defect, careful patient selection, and specific attention to each patient's goals.