Modifications of the Furlow palatoplasty (six- and seven-flap palatoplasties).
OBJECTIVE
To assess and compare the Furlow palatoplasty, a modified Furlow palatoplasty, and traditional palatoplasty methods.


METHODS
A retrospective analysis of the results.


METHODS
Cases were evaluated for operating time and complications, including oronasal fistula and blood loss.


RESULTS
There were no fistulas in any of the 19 patients who were included in our study. The modified Furlow palatoplasty was found to increase operating time and blood loss.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of the modified Furlow palatoplasty is feasible in select cases; however, this technique increases operating time and blood loss, which must be balanced against the theoretical advantages of increased palatal function with the Furlow palatoplasty.
Senders
C W
CW
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, USA.
Sykes
J M
JM
D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical; D001810:Blood Volume; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000601:surgery*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005402:Fistula / Q000209:etiology; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D009668:Nose Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D010160:Palate, Soft / Q000601:surgery; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D013997:Time Factors; D014945:Wound Healing