ABSTRACT
Cleft palate is a common congenital anomaly that, if left untreated, results in subsequent
velopharyngeal dysfunction. After surgical repair of the palatal cleft, patients must
be monitored clinically for any postoperative velopharyngeal dysfunction. If this
sequela develops, patients must be evaluated in a multidisciplinary manner with diagnostic
procedures performed and individualized care plans made prior to embarking upon surgery
for velopharyngeal dysfunction. This article discusses surgical management of patients
with cleft palate as well as the proper workup and management of postoperative velopharyngeal
dysfunction.
KEYWORDS
Cleft palate - velopharyngeal dysfunction - surgical management
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Gregory D PearsonM.D.
Center for Complex Craniofacial Disorders
Nationwide Children's Hospital; Assistant Professor of Clinical Plastic Surgery, The
Ohio State University College of Medicine 700 Childrens Dr., Columbus, OH 43205
