Single-layer Closure with Tongue Flap for Palatal Fistula in Cleft Palate Patients.
BACKGROUND
Tongue flap is a good option to close a complicated palatal fistula in cleft patients. Most surgeons advocate a double-layer closure to decrease the recurrence rates. In this study, we have reported our experience with a modified single-layer closure with tongue flap in cleft patients.


METHODS
All cases done by a single surgeon using this modified technique in a period of 10 years were retrospectively reviewed. A thorough description of this technique is also provided in the study.


RESULTS
Only 5 cases were operated on using this technique. The success rate of all these cases was 100%, with no recurrence of fistula and few complications.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique provides a way to avoid nasal layer closure in cases where nasal layer is difficult or impossible to close. It also limits the need for a second flap for nasal layer closure.
Plastic Surgery Department; Saudi Board Resident of Plastic Surgery; Saudi Board Resident of General Surgery; and Plastic Surgery Intern, King Fahad Hospital, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia.
Abdulla K
AK
Alsalman
Plastic Surgery Department; Saudi Board Resident of Plastic Surgery; Saudi Board Resident of General Surgery; and Plastic Surgery Intern, King Fahad Hospital, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia.
Emran A
EA
Algadiem
Plastic Surgery Department; Saudi Board Resident of Plastic Surgery; Saudi Board Resident of General Surgery; and Plastic Surgery Intern, King Fahad Hospital, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia.
Mufeed Saeed
MS
Alwabari
Plastic Surgery Department; Saudi Board Resident of Plastic Surgery; Saudi Board Resident of General Surgery; and Plastic Surgery Intern, King Fahad Hospital, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia.
Fatimah Jawad
FJ
Almugarrab