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Oronasal fistulae in repaired cleft palates
M Shimizu1, Y Shigetaka, H Mizuki
1Dept. of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Medical College of Oita, Japan.
Summary
Oronasal fistulae occurred in 40% of patients after palatoplasty, with most being small openings. This high rate suggests further research into cleft palate repair techniques is needed.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Oronasal fistulae are a known complication following cleft palate repair.
- Previous studies report varying incidence rates of oronasal fistulae post-palatoplasty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and characteristics of oronasal fistulae after palatoplasty.
- To identify potential correlations between fistula formation and surgical parameters.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 52 patients who underwent palatoplasty between 1981 and 1987.
- Analysis of fistula occurrence, size, location, and relationship to surgical technique variables.
Main Results:
- Oronasal fistulae persisted in 40% (21/52) of patients.
- Two-thirds of fistulae were small (slits or pinholes).
- Most fistulae were located at the premaxilla-maxilla junction; no significant correlation found with push-back distance or cleft width.
Conclusions:
- The observed fistula occurrence rate is higher than in some reports.
- Fistula characteristics and location suggest specific areas of surgical challenge.
- Surgical technique parameters like push-back distance and cleft width did not significantly influence fistula formation in this cohort.