[Furlow palatoplasty--experiences with 114 consecutive cases]

Area of Science:

• Cleft Palate Surgery
• Pediatric Plastic Surgery
• Speech Pathology

Background:

• The Furlow's double opposing palatoplasty was introduced in 1991.
• Initially used for specific cases, it became a preferred method for primary and corrective palatoplasty.
• 114 patients were prospectively registered after its introduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of Furlow's double opposing palatoplasty.
• To assess speech results and velopharyngeal function in patients undergoing this procedure.
• To compare outcomes with other palatoplasty methods.

Main Methods:

• Prospective registration of 114 patients undergoing Furlow's double opposing palatoplasty.
• Measurement of soft palate length increase immediately after surgery.
• Phoniatric testing at age 8 years.
• Nasal videoscopy to assess velopharyngeal closure.
• Longitudinal comparison of results at ages 5 and 8 years.

Main Results:

• An average soft palate length increase of 10 +/- 3 mm was achieved.
• No specific side effects, including fistulas, were reported.
• Good speech results were observed in 61% of patients at age 8.
• Mixed velopharyngeal closure was the predominant type in 55% of cases.
• Outcomes showed improvement over time and were comparable to or better than other palatoplasty techniques.

Conclusions:

• Furlow's double opposing palatoplasty is a safe and effective method for primary and corrective palatoplasty.
• The procedure yields significant improvements in soft palate length and speech outcomes.
• Long-term results indicate its efficacy in managing velopharyngeal function in cleft palate patients.