Closure of a palatal fistula using a mucoperiosteal island flap

Abstract

We recently experienced a case of large palatal fistula after plastic operation, for which a fisturectomy was perfomed using an island mucoperiosteal flap with a favorable prognosis.
Merits of this method:
1) Even large palatal fistula can be closed with this flap.
2) The island flap moves easily to the anterior or lateral portion of hard palate.
3) The result is ensured because the flap contains a major palatine neurovascular bundle.
4) This operation requires only one stage procedure and can be applied to infants and children.
Demerits of this method:
1) This technique is inadaptable for wide fistulas of hard palate.
2) A careful management of maxillary development is required when this method is used in children.