Risk Factors for Fistula Development Following Palatoplasty.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to assess the influence of some risks factors on the fistula development after palatoplasty to improve the outcome of the patients PATIENTS AND METHODS:: A total of 48 patients (the males were 22, The females were 26) were included in this study. All the patients were examined weekly for the first month postoperatively to assess any breakdown in the wound by inspection and by asking the parents for any nasal regurgitation during fluids feeding.

Results: The incidence of palatal fistula development after primary palatoplasty in this study was 12.5% (6\48). Occurrence of fistula was unrelated to the gender (P >0.5), but it was directly related to the age of patients (r = 0.98) and to the size of the cleft (r = 1). Fistula had occurred most likely in cases of Baradach 2 flap palatoplasty (83.3%) this was occurred especially when it was used for isolated cleft palate, but it was not associated with the type of the cleft (P >0.4). The surgeons experience and the use of prophylactic antibiotic were associated with the development of the fistula (P = 0.01 for both).

Conclusion: knowledge of the expected risk factors for fistula after different protocols of palatoplasty can improve the experience of the surgeon and improve the outcome on the patients.