Abstract
The mucosal grafts and flaps method (MGF method) has been developed to minimize growth impairment of the maxilla following cleft palate repair. This study was conducted to clarify the speech results of the MGF method. Post-operative results of velopharyngeal function, fistulas and articulation disorders of 48 subjects (BCLP: 13, UCLP: 23, CHSP: 5, CSP: 7) operated by the MCF method at 12-22 months of age were investigated. It was confirmed that in all the subjects the mucosal grafts were stuck to the raw surface of the palate.
The results were as follows: (1) 46 cases (95.3%) attained good velopharyngeal function and two cases (4.2%) were borderline. (2) Small fistulas were observed in 2 cases (4.2%) but they needed no fistulectomy. (3) Articulation disorders were observed in 15 cases (31.3%) and hypernasality was observed in one case (2.1%). (4) Among the articulation disorders, “mis-palatalized articulation” was most frequent (11 cases), followed by forward distortion of velar and substitutions (3 cases each). Glottal stops or “lateral articulation” were observed in 1 case each. (5) These results of the MCF method were significantly better than those of the Palatal Mucosal Flap Method.
These results suggest that the MCF method is a recommended method not only from the viewpoint of growth of the maxilla but also from that of speech results.
