Assessment of outcome following two-flap palatoplasty in 1184 patients with cleft palate: A retrospective study

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess three speech defects, growth impairment, and fistula formation in cleft palate patients after two-flap palatoplasty. Materials and Methods: A total of 1184 patients were included in the study and were followed up for 5–10 years with the minimum age at assessment being 5 years. Speech assessment was done by Perkins perceptual speech assessment. Cast analysis was done to check growth of the patient, and clinically, the presence of fistula was recorded. Wherever needed statistical analysis using SPSS software was done. Results: Speech defects were found in 14.8% of cases. About 75% of these cases were those cases of cleft palate repaired after the age of 2. The rate of fistula formation was 4.3%. Growth impairment as seen by reduced intercanine and intermolar width as well as reduced arch length was seen to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Two-flap palatoplasty is a good technique for cleft palate repair with low rate of speech defects and fistula formation. Growth impairment can be managed by other means. Correct timing of palate surgery is of essence.