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Updated: Jan 20, 2026
Author Spotlight: Implementing the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Concept in Rehabilitation Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Published on: March 1, 2024
Reconstruction of Large Anterior Palatal Fistulae Using Anteriorly Based Dorsal Tongue Flaps
Zhao-Hui Yang1, Jiang-Long Zhong, Wei-Liang Chen
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
Background:
An anterior palatal fistula in a bilateral cleft lip and palate is a challenging clinical dilemma. The authors evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of the reconstruction of large anterior palatal fistulae using anteriorly based dorsal tongue flaps.
Methods:
Eight patients with anterior palatal fistulae after repair of a bilateral cleft lip and palate using anteriorly based dorsal tongue flaps. The defect size varied from 1.0 × 1.0 cm to 1.5 × 2.0 cm, and the tongue flap size varied from 1.5 × 3.5 cm to 2.0 × 3.5 cm.
Results:
All patients underwent successful reconstruction of palatal defects using anteriorly based tongue flaps, and no case of spontaneous detachment of the tongue flap occurred. The patients with palatal fistulae were followed up for 10 to 30 months, and no recurrence was encountered.
Conclusion:
An anteriorly based dorsal tongue flap is a safe and feasible surgical technique for the closure of anterior palatal fistulae.
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