Acellular dermal matrix in palatoplasty

Evaluation of the use of an advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF+) membrane in children undergoing primary palatoplasty-- a prospective randomized clinical pilot-study

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether an A-PRF + membrane can lower the fistula rate in patients undergoing primary palatoplasty. A total of 20 children were included: 10 were randomized and included in the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) group, and 10 were assigned to the control group. Before two-flap palatoplasty was performed, the cleft's width was measured. The patients in the PRF group underwent an intraoperative collection of 5 ml venous blood, which was centrifugated and pressed onto an A-PRF + membrane. Subsequently, the membrane was placed between the oral and nasal mucosal layers. The control group underwent the same procedure without the addition of A-PRF+. The need for transfusions or postoperative intensive care was registered. All children were followed up at 10 days, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months, and after more than 6 months and the occurrence of fistulae and need for a second palatal operation was then evaluated. After more than six months postoperatively, only two fistulae (10%) remained and had to undergo secondary palatoplasty (p = 1.00). Moreover, the blood transfusion rate did not differ significantly (p = 1.00). A-PRF + might be beneficial in cleft closure, but further randomized studies with larger patient cohort are needed.

Novel Functional Dressing Materials for Intraoral Wound Care

Intraoral wounds represent a particularly challenging category of mucosal and hard tissue injuries, characterized by the unique structures, complex environment, and distinctive healing processes within the oral cavity. They have a common occurrence yet frequently inflict significant inconvenience and pain on patients, causing a serious decline in the quality of life. A variety of novel functional dressings specifically designed for the moist and dynamic oral environment have been developed and realized accelerated and improved wound healing. Thoroughly analyzing and summarizing these materials is of paramount importance in enhancing the understanding and proficiently managing intraoral wounds. In this review, the particular processes and unique characteristics of intraoral wound healing are firstly described. Up-to-date knowledge of various forms, properties, and applications of existing products are then intensively discussed, which are categorized into animal products, plant extracts, natural polymers, and synthetic products. To conclude, this review presents a comprehensive framework of currently available functional intraoral wound dressings, with an aim to provoke inspiration of future studies to design more convenient and versatile materials.

Dermal Matrix Graft Effects on Facial Growth in a Veau-Wardill-Kilner Palatoplasty Model: An Experimental Study in Rats

The primary goal of palatoplasty is the restoration of normal speech, that can be aimed by, among many procedures, lengthening the palate through the pushback technique; one of its complications is abnormal maxillary growth. The main factor affecting facial growth in CLP patients is believed by many to be the palatoplasty-due to the large scar retraction resulting from some surgical techniques. The non-crosslinked two-layer bioabsorbable collagen matrix Mucograft™ (Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) is a potential tool to aid in wound closure in a second-intention healing situation.

The objective of this work was to test the use of an acellular dermal matrix (Mucograft®) in an experimental model of Veau-Wardill-Kilner palatoplasty, as a tool to reduce scar retraction of the denuded palatine mucosa.

Twenty-four 3-week-old male Wistar rats were used. The animals were randomly divided into two groups. In the control group, an excision was made with bone exposure in the palate, simulating the defect left in the Veau-Wardill-Kilner palatoplasty. In the intervention group, the same procedure was performed, and the area of denuded palatine bone was treated with a bioabsorbable collagen matrix (Mucograft®). For data collection, 9 weeks after surgery (12 weeks of life), the animals were euthanized by excessive anesthetic dosage. Maxillary growth, macroscopic appearance of the scar, pain, and bleeding were evaluated.

There were significant statistical differences between the groups for palate length growth (7.6 mm + -0.38 mm vs 5.5 mm + -0.36 mm, P = .009) and for palate width growth (1.47 mm + -0.8 mm vs -0.09 mm + -0.55 mm, P = .001), favoring dermal matrix group compared to controls. Whereas for pain and bleeding, there were no differences between the groups.

The use of dermal matrix in rats with an area of bone denudation on the palate increases maxillary length and width growth patterns. Besides, it does not increase pain, bleeding, or post-operative complications.

25-year Follow-up of Primary Tibial Periosteal Graft for Hard Palate Repair in Cleft Lip and Palate: Outcomes, Concerns and Controversies

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates long-term outcomes in adults with Unilateral and Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (UCLP/BCLP) treated during the period 1992 to 1995 with tibial periosteal graft in primary repair.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Department of Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, Children's Hospital Bambino Gesù (Italy).

PATIENTS

The study included 52 patients with non-syndromic BCLP/UCLP who met the inclusion criteria.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients underwent a standardized surgical protocol using a tibial periosteal graft as primary repair of the hard palate.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Long-term outcomes on maxillary growth, residual oronasal fistula, and leg length discrepancy.

RESULTS

About <2% of patients showed oral-nasal communication. Mean value of maxillary depth was 86° ± 4.5°. The lower value for maxillary retrusion was 76.8° in relation to the Frankfurt plane. At the x-ray control, 12.2% of patients showed leg discrepancy with a difference of always <2 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of maxillary retrusion obtained was the same if compared to other techniques. Tibial periosteal graft reduces the risk of fistula and the need for reintervention after secondary bone graft. The study did not observe negative impacts on leg growth after 25 years.

Exploration of the Utility of the Generic ICHOM Standard Set Measures in Evaluating the Speech of Patients with Cleft Lip/Palate

Background

The International Consortium of Health Outcome Measurements (ICHOM) standard set for cleft care appraisal recommends clinicians assess articulation with percentage consonants correct (PCC) and velopharyngeal function with velopharyngeal competency rating (VPC-R). This study explores the utility and limitations of these generic measures in detecting cleft speech sound disorders by comparing them with two cleft-specific speech-rating systems, cleft audit protocol of speech-augmented Americleft modification (CAPS-A-AM) and Pittsburgh weighted speech scale (PWSS).

Methods

Consecutive children with repaired, nonsyndromic cleft lip/palate, aged 5 years or older (n = 27) underwent prospective speech evaluations conducted at a single academic institution. These evaluations were conducted, recorded, and evaluated by blinded speech-language pathologists experienced with all tools.

Results

When comparing measures of articulation, PCC scores correlated better with scores for relevant subcomponents of CAPS-A-AM than PWSS. When comparing measures of velopharyngeal function, VPC-R scores correlated well with relevant components of both scales. Using a "screening test versus diagnostic test" analogy, VPC-R ratings were 87.5% sensitive and 73.7% specific for detecting velopharyngeal dysfunction according to subcomponents of CAPS-A-AM, and 70.6% sensitive and 100% specific according to subcomponents of PWSS.

Conclusions

This exploratory study demonstrates that PCC and VPC-R perform moderately well in detecting articulatory and velopharyngeal dysfunction in patients with cleft lip/palate; however, these tools cannot describe nuances of cleft speech sound disorder. Thus, although PCC and VPC-R adequately track basic minimum outcomes, we encourage teams to consider extending the standard set by adopting a cleft-specific measurement system for further evaluation of the tools.

Interposition grafting of collagen-gelatin sponge impregnated with basic fibroblast growth factor in primary palatoplasty

INTRODUCTION

An oronasal fistula is a challenging post-operative complication of palatoplasty due to impaired velopharyngeal function or its high recurrence rate. Muscle repositioning, a key procedure in palatoplasty, causes dead space at the junction between the hard and soft palates. Consequently, thin oral and nasal mucosae are prone to break down and form fistulas. In this study, we used basic fibroblast growth factor-impregnated collagen gelatin sponge (bFGF-CGS) in primary palatoplasty to reduce fistula formation.

METHODS

This retrospective study assessed the complications and efficacy of bFGF-CGS to reduce fistula formation. Patients who underwent primary palatoplasty with bFGF-CGS were included. The same number of patients who underwent primary palatoplasty without bFGF-CGS was included as a control group. The outcomes included post-operative oronasal fistula formation, delayed healing, bleeding, and infection.

RESULTS

Both groups included 44 patients. Except for age at palatoplasty, there were no statistically significant demographic differences between the two groups; however, the rates of fistula formation in the study and control group were 2.3% and 13.6%, respectively. There were no infections among the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The grafting of bFGF-CGS in primary palatoplasty was safe and probably effective in reducing post-operative oronasal fistula formation.

Acellular dermal matrix in reconstructive surgery: Applications, benefits, and cost

Modern tissue engineering has made substantial advancements that have revolutionized plastic surgery. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is an example that has gained considerable attention recently. ADM can be made from humans, bovines, or porcine tissues. ADM acts as a scaffold that incorporates into the recipient tissue. It is gradually infiltrated by fibroblasts and vascularized. Fortunately, many techniques have been used to remove cellular and antigenic components from ADM to minimize immune system rejection. ADM is made of collagen, fibronectin, elastin, laminin, glycosaminoglycans, and hyaluronic acid. It is used in critical wounds (e.g., diabetic wounds) to protect soft tissue and accelerate wound healing. It is also used in implant-based breast reconstruction surgery to improve aesthetic outcomes and reduce capsule contracture risk. ADM has also gained attention in abdominal and chest wall defects. Some studies have shown that ADM is associated with less erosion and infection in abdominal hernias than synthetic meshes. However, its higher cost prevents it from being commonly used in hernia repair. Also, using ADM in tendon repair (e.g., Achilles tendon) has been associated with increased stability and reduced rejection rate. Despite its advantages, ADM might result in complications such as hematoma, seroma, necrosis, and infection. Moreover, ADM is expensive, making it an unsuitable option for many patients. Finally, the literature on ADM is insufficient, and more research on the results of ADM usage in surgeries is needed. This article aims to review the literature regarding the application, Benefits, and costs of ADM in reconstructive surgery.

An Algorithmic Approach for Deploying Buccal Fat Pad Flaps and Buccal Myomucosal Flaps Strategically in Primary and Secondary Palatoplasty

OBJECTIVE

Recent publications have introduced the use of buccal myomucosal and fat pad flaps to augment palatal repairs with autologous tissue. We propose a workflow for intraoperative decision-making to introduce these adjuncts into standard palatoplasty procedures.

DESIGN/PATIENTS

A retrospective chart review of a single-surgeon series of patients undergoing primary and secondary palatoplasties performed between October 2017 and November 2020 was completed after Institutional Review Board approval.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patient demographics, phenotype, operative details, and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were included in a review. For those undergoing primary repair, 23.3% underwent a Furlow palatoplasty alone, 46.3% had a Furlow palatoplasty accompanied with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and/or a buccal fat flap (BFF). A unilateral buccal myomucosal flap (BMMF) with or without augmentation with BFF or ADM was employed in 16.3% of the cases. Fourteen percent required a bilateral BMMF+/- ADM. Fistula occurrence was 2.3% (n = 1). For revisions, 27% underwent only a conversion Furlow palatoplasty, 26% had a conversion Furlow palatoplasty accompanied with ADM and/or a BFF, 33% had a unilateral BMMF or BMMF/ADM, and 14% required a bilateral BMMF+/- ADM.

CONCLUSIONS

In severe phenotypes or complicated cases, buccal fat flaps and myomucosal flaps may be utilized. This approach has mostly replaced the use of ADM over time. An algorithmic approach to palatoplasty allows surgeons to tailor the extent of surgery to the needs of each patient.

Effect of antibiotic pack on hard palate after fistula closure on nasal airflow and reoccurrence rate

This parallel blocked randomized controlled trial was done in two groups of 30 patients each to determine if placement of an antibiotic oral pack on the hard palate after hard palatal fistula repair reduces nasal air emission and fistula re-occurrence. Group A had an oral pack on the hard palate for 5 days post-operatively while group B did not. In group A, percentage of nasal air emission was tested using nasometry with and without pack. Paired t-tests were performed to compare nasal emissions for patients with and without pack. Recurrence of fistulas after 6 months between group A and B was tested using odds ratio. Effect of nasal air emission on fistula rates was tested using paired t-tests. There was a significant increase (p < 0.0001) in nasal emission after removal of the pack in group A. Fistula re-occurrence tended to be higher in group B (no pack) than group A but this was not significant (p = 0.242). There was no correlation between nasal air emission and fistula rates. In patients with recurrent fistulae, placement of an oral pack after fistula repair diminishes nasal air emission. Whether this has an impact on re-occurrence of fistulae needs to be investigated further.

Tissue Augmenting Palatoplasty for the Treatment of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency

PURPOSE

Persistent velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) following primary palatoplasty remains a difficult problem to treat. This study evaluates speech outcomes following revision palatoplasty with tissue augmentation using buccal myomucosal flaps (BMF) as an alternative to pharyngoplasty for patients with VPI.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center review of revision palatoplasty with tissue augmentation at a tertiary pediatric hospital Cleft-Craniofacial Center between January 2017 and March 2021 was conducted. Patients with a history of previous palatoplasty, a diagnosis of persistent or recurrent VPI, and comprehensive pre- and postoperative speech evaluations who underwent revision palatoplasty with BMF were included.

RESULTS

Twenty patients met inclusion criteria (35% female, 20% syndromic). Mean age at the time of revision palatoplasty with BMF was 9.7 years. Preoperatively, all patients had stigmatizing speech and received the recommendation for speech surgery; the mean Pittsburgh Weighted Speech Score (PWSS) was 14.3 ± 4.9. The mean postoperative PWSS at the most recent assessment was 4.2 ± 2.3, representing a statistically significant improvement from preoperative scores (P < .001). Mean follow-up time was 8.9 months. Following revision palatoplasty with BMF, only one patient has received the recommendation for further speech surgery. No complications were noted.

CONCLUSION

In patients with VPI following primary palatoplasty, revision palatoplasty with tissue augmentation offers an alternative to pharyngoplasty. This approach preserves dynamic velopharyngeal function, improves speech outcomes, and should be considered an option when treating patients with post-primary palatoplasty VPI.

Square-root Palatoplasty: Comparing a Novel Modified-Furlow Double-opposing Z-palatoplasty Technique to Traditional Straight-line Repair

The purpose of this study was to introduce a modification of the Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty (DOZ)-the square-root palatoplasty (SRP)-and critically evaluate outcomes compared to children who underwent straight-line repair (SLR).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all nonsyndromic children undergoing primary cleft palate closure either by SRP or SLR at our institution between 2009 and 2017. Outcomes of interest included rates/location of oronasal fistula, secondary surgery, speech delay/deficits, resonance, nasal air emission (NAE), articulation errors, and velopharyngeal function. Logistic regression was used to assess for the effect of surgery type on outcomes while controlling for Veau cleft type, age, and gender.

Results

Seventy-eight patients were included; 46 (59%) underwent SRP, and 32 (41%) underwent SLR. The mean follow-up was 4.07 years. When compared to SLR, children who underwent SRP were less likely to have oronasal fistula [odds ratio (OR) 4.8, P = 0.0159], speech delay/deficits (OR 7.7, P < 0.001), NAE (OR 9.7, P < 0.001), articulation errors (OR 10.2, P < 0.001), or need for secondary speech surgery (OR 13.2, P < 0.0002). Patients who underwent SRP were also more likely to have normal resonance (78.26% versus 43.75%, respectively; P = 0.0043) and good VP function (84.78% versus 56.25%, respectively; P = 0.0094).

Conclusions

This study describes and evaluates outcomes following a modified-Furlow DOZ technique-the SRP. After adjusting for Veau classification, age, and gender in nonsyndromic children, SRP is associated with significantly less speech delay/deficits, NAE, articulation errors, and need for secondary speech surgery when compared to children who underwent SLR.

Surgical Variation Between Consultant Surgeons Performing a Sommerlad Radical Intravelar Veloplasty

BACKGROUND

Although cleft surgeons in the United Kingdom follow a similar training pathway, and cleft centers adhere to similar protocols regarding timing of palate surgery and surgical technique, speech outcomes still vary significantly between centers.

OBJECTIVE

To explore if differences in technique exist between individual surgeons, performing a Sommerlad radical intravelar veloplasty (IVVP).

DESIGN

An exploratory, qualitative approach was adopted to understand the views of UK cleft surgeons performing a Sommerlad radical IVVP for primary cleft palate repair and to discuss what was important in the adoption, adaptation, and evolution of this technique within their own practice.

METHOD

A semistructured interview schedule was designed. Interviews were conducted in person or via videoconferencing, with interested surgeons. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Analysis involved inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Fourteen cleft consultants from the United Kingdom participated (3 females and 11 males). Seven of the consultants were trained in plastic surgery and 4 in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Eight themes were identified from the thematic analysis. One theme-Surgical Variation-is discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings provide insight into areas of variation seen within one surgical technique of cleft palate repair. These variations may have arisen to accommodate heterogeneity in the patient population or may have evolved in relation to different experiences of training or influences of colleagues. Further work is needed to explore the reasons for these differences in technique and to identify if any of these subtle differences contributed to variability in outcomes.

Oral Flora and Perioperative Antimicrobial Interventions in Cleft Palate Surgery: A Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The role of perioperative antibiotics in cleft palate remains a topic of debate. Advocates stress their importance in preventing local and systemic infections and decreasing the incidence of oronasal fistula formation. However, few studies to date have directly evaluated the role of antibiotics and other antimicrobial measures in cleft palate surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review is to evaluate the evidence surrounding the use of perioperative antibiotics and other antimicrobial interventions in cleft palate surgery. Additionally, we review the literature on the oral flora unique to the cleft palate patient population.

METHODS

This was accomplished utilizing PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library with MeSH and generic terms. Articles were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

This review highlights the lack of higher level evidence on perioperative antibiotic use and other antimicrobial interventions in cleft palatoplasty and calls for further research on the matter.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature appears to support the use of preoperative antibiotics for cleft palatoplasty, but the benefits of prolonged postoperative antibiotic use remain questionable.

Novel treatment for mild and moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency using implantable AlloDerm for posterior pharyngeal wall augmentation and review of surgical repair techniques

PURPOSE

Mild and moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency is a relatively common structural defect of the velopharyngeal sphincter that occurs congenitally or secondarily to various medical conditions resulting in speech inadequacy. Currently, multiple surgical methods exist to treat mild and moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency; however, the revision rates are high and the outcomes are variable. This case series describes a novel technique using implantable AlloDerm to repair the posterior pharyngeal wall to treat mild and moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This paper presents four patients with mild or moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency who were treated with implantable AlloDerm in the posterior pharyngeal wall at a large, safety-net hospital in New England from 2000 to 2019. Additionally, a review of surgical repair techniques for velopharyngeal insufficiency was conducted with synthesis of a qualitative overview.

RESULTS

There were sufficient follow-up data in three of these patients. All three reported subjective improvements in symptoms after the procedure. One patient had implant extrusion one month following the procedure with subsequent removal.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, implantable AlloDerm for posterior pharyngeal wall augmentation is a useful, low risk method for treating mild to moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Acellular Dermal Matrices: Applications in Plastic Surgery

Modern advances in tissue engineering have transformed the plastic surgeon's management strategies across a wide variety of applications. Comprehension of the fundamentals of biologic constructs is critical to navigating the available armamentarium. It is essential that plastic surgeons become familiar with some of the existing methods for utilizing biologics as well as the advantages and limitations to their use. In this article, the authors describe the basic science of biologics with a focus on acellular dermal matrices (ADMs), and review the recent evidence behind their use for a variety of reconstructive and aesthetic purposes. The review is organized by system and examines the common indications, techniques, and outcomes pertaining to the application of ADMs in select anatomic areas. The final section briefly considers possible future directions for using biologics in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

The Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix in Combination With Pedicled Buccal Fat Pad in Wide Cleft Palate Repair: A Case Report and Literature Review

We describe a case of the combined use of acellular dermal matrix and pedicled buccal fat pad (BFP) in a wide U-shaped cleft palate repair. Acellular dermal matrix was used as a "patch" repair for the nasal mucosa defect as opposed to the conventional inlay graft. The advantages include reduced cost and a smaller avascular graft load. Lateral relaxing incisions were made to ensure tension-free closure of oromucosa at midline. Lateral oromucosa defect closure with well-vascularized pedicled BFP ensures enhanced healing, less palatal contracture and shortening, and reduced infection. The palate healed with mucosalization at 2 weeks, and no complications were noted at 6 months follow-up.

Correction of Microstomia Reconstruction With the Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix for Buccal Reconstruction

Correction of microstomia is challenging with a high rate of recurrence. We report the successful treatment of microstomia using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) as an adjunct for intraoral lining with >1 year of follow-up.A 9-year-old international patient with severe immunodeficiency presented with severe microstomia because of recurrent oral infections. She had undergone 3 previous failed attempts to re-establish an adequate oral opening and was dependent on enteral nutrition via gastrostomy tube. She underwent release of the oral commissure scar contracture and orbicularis oris and the resultant mucosal defect was lined with ADM. A postoperative splint was used for 8 weeks. One-year follow-up demonstrated maintenance of the oral aperture with complete mucosalization of the ADM; the patient was able to resume oral diet and regular dental hygiene.Mucosal reconstruction with ADM is a viable alternative to local flaps and in this case exhibited minimal soft tissue contraction.

Placement of an antibiotic oral pack on the hard palate after primary cleft palatoplasty: a randomized controlled trial into the effect on fistula rates

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine whether placement of an antibiotic oral pack on the hard palate reduces fistula rates after primary cleft palatoplasty.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This study was a parallel blocked randomized controlled trial. The study consisted of two groups of 100 patients each with non-syndromic unilateral complete cleft lip, alveolus, and hard and soft palate that underwent primary palatoplasty. Group A had an oral pack placed on the hard palate for 5 days postoperatively while group B did not. Occurrence of fistulae between both groups was tested using odds ratios (OR).

RESULTS

In 2% of the patients in group A, a fistula was found 6 months after palatal surgery. In contrast, in 21% of the patients in group B, a palatal fistula could be confirmed. The fistula occurrence in group A was statistically significantly lower than that in group B (OR = 0.0768, CI = [0.02 … 0.34], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study provide evidence that the rate of fistula formation after primary palatoplasty is significantly reduced if a pack soaked with antibiotic cream is placed on the palate postoperatively for 5 days.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of an antibiotic pack after cleft palate repair can be recommended to prevent occurrence of oronasal fistulae.

Gelfoam Interposition Minimizes Risk of Fistula and Postoperative Bleeding in Modified-Furlow Palatoplasty

Failure to accomplish a tension-free, watertight closure predisposes the palatoplasty patient to fistula formation. Perioperative bleeding also places the patient at risk for adverse airway events (AAE). This study introduces the incorporation of a hemostatic gelatin sponge (Gelfoam) into layered palatoplasty to minimize adverse postoperative bleeding and fistula formation. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify subjects who underwent Furlow palatoplasty with insertion of Gelfoam from 2010 to 2015. Exclusion criteria include age >3 years, prior palate surgery, <30-day follow-up, immunosuppressive state, and diagnosis of Treacher-Collins or Apert Syndrome. Demographic data include age, sex, cleft laterality, prior surgeries, Veau classification, Pierre Robin status, and tracheostomy dependence. Primary outcome was fistula formation. Secondary outcomes included perioperative metrics and AAE.One hundred subjects met criteria, 45% female. Average age was 14.6 months. Subjects with syndromes comprised 28%, with 16% diagnosed with Pierre Robin. Two subjects were tracheostomy-dependent. Prior cleft and mandibular procedures were performed in 55%. Isolated palatal defects were seen in 46%, unilateral lip and palate in 41%, and bilateral lip and palate in 13%. The majority of defects were Veau II and III (35% and 34%, respectively). Adverse airway events occurred in 2%, one of which resulted in reintubation. One subject (1%) was found to have a postoperative fistula.The incorporation of Gelfoam in the modified-Furlow palatoplasty results in a low rate of oronasal fistula (1%) and low perioperative risk of AAE. Further prospective comparison of this method to others will be the focus of future work.

Incidence of Palatal Fistula at Time of Secondary Alveolar Cleft Reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

We aim to establish consistent time points for evaluating palatal fistula incidence to standardize reporting practices and clarify prospective literature.

DESIGN

An institutional retrospective chart review was conducted on 76 patients with unilateral or bilateral complete cleft lip and palate who underwent secondary alveolar bone grafting between 2006 and 2015.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Early fistula incidence rates were reported prior to maxillary expansion, and late fistula rates were reported at the time of alveolar bone grafting. Fistula recurrence rates after primary repair were also measured.

RESULTS

We found an early fistula incidence rate of 20% (n = 15) and a late fistula rate of 55% (n = 42) at the time of secondary ABG. Fistulae recurred after initial repair in 43% of cases. Fistulae were classified using the Pittsburgh Classification System as type III (33%), type IV (60%), or type V (7%). The presence of a bilateral cleft ( P = 0.01) and history of early fistula repair ( P < 0.01) were associated with late fistula incidence in a univariate analysis. In a logistic regression model, only early fistula repair was associated with late fistula incidence (OR = 17.17) and overall likelihood of recurrence (OR = 70.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Early fistulae should be reported prior to orthodontic expansion of the maxillary arch. Late fistulae should be reported at the time of ABG, following palatal expansion. Patients who develop an early fistula after palatoplasty are likely to experience recurrent fistula formation.

Use of acellular dermal matrices in laryngotracheal and pharyngeal reconstruction: systematic review

Background:

Acellular dermal matrices are increasingly used in laryngotracheal and pharyngeal reconstruction, but specific indications and the type of acellular dermal matrix used vary. The authors systematically reviewed outcomes relating to acellular dermal matrix use in head and neck reconstruction.

Methods:

Electronic databases were searched through 1 May 2016 for literature on acellular dermal matrix use in laryngotracheal and pharyngeal reconstruction. Studies were appraised for surgical indications, outcomes and study design.

Results:

Eleven publications with 170 cases were included. Eight articles reported on acellular dermal matrix use in oncological reconstruction. Most studies were case series; no high-level evidence studies were identified. Graft extrusion was more common in non-oncological applications. In general, post-oncological reconstruction with an acellular dermal matrix demonstrated complication rates similar to those reported without an acellular dermal matrix.

Conclusion:

Evidence in support of acellular dermal matrix use in head and neck reconstruction is generally poor. Prospective comparative studies are required to define the indications, safety and effectiveness of acellular dermal matrices in laryngotracheal and pharyngeal reconstruction.

Effect on the tensile strength of human acellular dermis (Epiflex®) of in-vitro incubation simulating an open abdomen setting

Background

The use of human acellular dermis (hAD) to close open abdomen in the treatment process of severe peritonitis might be an alternative to standard care. This paper describes an investigation of the effects of fluids simulating an open abdomen environment on the biomechanical properties of Epiflex® a cell-free human dermis transplant.

Methods

hAD was incubated in Ringers solution, blood, urine, upper gastrointestinal (upper GI) secretion and a peritonitis-like bacterial solution in-vitro for 3 weeks. At day 0, 7, 14 and 21 breaking strength was measured, tensile strength was calculated and standard fluorescence microscopy was performed.

Results

hAD incubated in all five of the five fluids showed a decrease in mean breaking strength at day 21 when compared to day 0. However, upper GI secretion was the only incubation fluid that significantly reduced the mechanical strength of Epiflex after 21days of incubation when compared to incubation in Ringer’s solution.

Conclusion

hAD may be a suitable material for closure of the open abdomen in the absence of upper GI leakage and pancreatic fistulae.

Strategies to improve regeneration of the soft palate muscles after cleft palate repair

Children with a cleft in the soft palate have difficulties with speech, swallowing, and sucking. These patients are unable to separate the nasal from the oral cavity leading to air loss during speech. Although surgical repair ameliorates soft palate function by joining the clefted muscles of the soft palate, optimal function is often not achieved. The regeneration of muscles in the soft palate after surgery is hampered because of (1) their low intrinsic regenerative capacity, (2) the muscle properties related to clefting, and (3) the development of fibrosis. Adjuvant strategies based on tissue engineering may improve the outcome after surgery by approaching these specific issues. Therefore, this review will discuss myogenesis in the noncleft and cleft palate, the characteristics of soft palate muscles, and the process of muscle regeneration. Finally, novel therapeutic strategies based on tissue engineering to improve soft palate function after surgical repair are presented.