Work

Speech outcomes following buccal fat pad interposition in palatal repair: A clinical outcome analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Successful cleft palate repair requires both anatomical closure and restoration of velopharyngeal function for normal speech. Complications such as fistula and velopharyngeal insufficiency remain concerns. The buccal fat pad (BFP), with its vascularity and low morbidity, serves as a useful biological interpositional graft. Aim: To evaluate the role of BFP interposition in palatoplasty and its impact on speech outcomes. Methods: This prospective series included 26 patients undergoing primary or secondary palatoplasty with BFP. Postoperative outcomes (fistula, dehiscence, scarring) and speech parameters (resonance, articulation, intelligibility, velopharyngeal function) were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results: Complication rates were low (12%). Speech outcomes improved significantly (p < 0.05), and 88% achieved adequate velopharyngeal closure. Conclusion: BFP interposition enhances healing and improves speech outcomes in palatoplasty.

Source: Otolaryngology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.xocr.2025.100716

Authors: Manu Gupta, Sanjeev Kumar, S. Manu Prasad, Partishtha Sharma, Harish Kumar Agarwala, Vivek Kumar Jha

Institution: Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University

Language: English

Topic: Cleft Lip and Palate Research

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,110