Genetics of Cleft Palate and Velopharyngeal Insufficiency.
Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) can occur in the setting of an unrepaired or repaired cleft lip and palate. The rate of VPI has been documented as high as 33% in some studies with higher rates of recurrences following surgery associated with genetic syndromes such as 22q11.2 deletions. The primary cause of VPI in these groups is still identified as the anatomic abnormalities of the velum. In this review, the anatomy and physiology of the velum are discussed along with genetic mutations associated with VPI.
Division of Plastic Surgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Walter M
WM
Sweeney
Division of Plastic Surgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Steve T
ST
Lanier
Division of Plastic Surgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Chad A
CA
Purnell
Division of Plastic Surgery, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Arun K
AK
Gosain
cleft palate; genetics; palate anatomy; palate physiology; velopharyngeal insufficiency; velopharynx