Effect of two-flap palatoplasty on growth and speech in patients with a cleft palate

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of two-flap palatoplasty in improving the growth rate and repairing speech abnormalities in patients with an isolated cleft palate. Patients and methods In 30 patients with an isolated cleft palate, two-flap palatoplasty was used for correction. The immediate postoperative gain in palatal length was assessed and the incidence of postoperative oronasal fistula was also observed. All patients received speech and nutritional therapy. Speech parameters were obtained preoperatively and at 6, 18 and 30 weeks postoperatively. Patients' height was recorded 6 months preoperatively, at the time of surgery and 6 months postoperatively, whereas patients' weight was recorded 6 and 3 months preoperatively, at the time of surgery, and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Results There was a significant increase in palatal length (the mean palatal length gain was 6.09 ± 0.15 mm). The incidence of oronasal fistula was reported in three patients. A significant improvement was recorded in speech outcome at different follow-up periods. There was a significant gain in children's weight and height postoperatively. Conclusion Two-flap palatoplasty is a reliable technique for correction of an isolated cleft palate, with a limited incidence of oronasal fistula. Palatoplasty combined with proper nutrition has a positive effect on the catch-up growth rate. Speech therapy after palatoplasty is essential to achieve good speech outcomes.