Analysis of Soft Palate Movement after Palatoplasty Using a Buccal Musculomucosal Flap

Abstract

　　Introduction：Although numerous procedures have been used to correct cleft palate, buccal musculomucosal flaps have only been applied in limited cases such as wide cleft. In this study, morphological analysis of the soft palate was performed in cleft palate patients.
　　Methods：Eighteen patients whose soft palate was closed with buccal musculomucosal flaps were included. Lateral cephalograms at rest, occlusion and during/a/phonation were used to evaluate the length and position of the soft palate. Results were compared with values for the non-cleft control group.
　　Results：The length of the soft palate in the cleft palate patients was significantly longer than that in the control group. Sufficient palate elevation, as measured by angle and length, was achieved, and the values were not significantly different between the operated and control groups. The position of velopharyngeal closure was lower in the cleft palate patients than in the normal controls.
　　Discussion：The musculomucosal flap is a useful option for the closure of wide cleft. The characteristics of soft palate morphology indicative for this procedure are longer length and equivalent velopharyngeal function to normal children.