Pharyngeal Flap

Late Cleft Treatment

Pierre Robin Syndrome

CHAPTERS

Introduction

Clefts of the Lip and Palate

Ear Reconstruction

Craniosynostosis

Orbital Reconstruction

Treacher Collins Syndrome

Nasal Reconstruction

Orthognathic Surgery

Trauma Reconstruction

Hemifacial Microsomia

Summary

Approximately 70-80 percent of all cleft palate patients will develop velopharyngeal competence after palate closure and thus the potential for normal speech. The remaining 20-30 percent will require speech therapy and/or an additional surgical procedure called a pharyngeal flap. To correct persistent hypernasal speech, this procedure involves raising a flap of tissue from the posterior pharynx and inserting it into the soft palate. This flap is indicated when the repaired palate is too short or the muscles do not function properly, causing a persistent hypernasal speech. The procedure is performed usually after the age of 4-5 when speech and velopharyngeal competence can be thoroughly assessed and before the child begins school.

Pharyngeal Flap:
The pharyngeal flap procedure for hypernasal speech. A superiorly based flap of tissue is raised from the the posterior pharynx and sutured to the soft palate thereby decreasing the amount of air through the nose. Lateral ports or holes are left so that the nose will not be obstructed.

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The Tennessee Craniofacial Center, part of the Erlanger Health System, is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Center, led Larry A. Sargent, M.D., specializes in the evaluation and treatment of patients of all ages with craniofacial deformities. Location: 975 East Third Street. Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403
Phone: 423-778-9192 or 800-418-3223 Fax: 423-778-8172
Internet: www.craniofacialcenter.com Copyright ©1997, 2000, Erlanger Health Systems