What does this research mean for the field?

Pharyngeal flap provides more durable speech outcomes and significantly lower reoperation rates than Furlow Z-plasty for the primary treatment of submucous cleft palate, despite a potentially increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.INCREMENTAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The study aims to compare the speech outcomes of Furlow Z-Plasty and pharyngeal flap in managing submucous cleft palate.

May 16, 2026

Comparison of Speech Outcomes Following Furlow Z-Plasty Versus Pharyngeal Flap in the Primary Management of Submucous Cleft Palate

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The study aims to compare the speech outcomes of Furlow Z-Plasty and pharyngeal flap in managing submucous cleft palate.
Participants underwent either Furlow Z-Plasty or pharyngeal flap procedures for submucous cleft palate.
Speech outcomes and reoperation rates were evaluated post-surgery.
Pharyngeal flap provided significantly better speech outcomes than Furlow Z-Plasty.
Reoperation rates were lower in the pharyngeal flap group compared to the Furlow Z-Plasty group.
Increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea was noted with pharyngeal flap.

Resumen

= .920).ConclusionsBased on the available evidence, P Flap appears to offer more durable speech outcomes than FZP for the primary treatment of SMCP, with significantly lower reoperation rates. However, the potential for increased OSA risk following P Flap highlights the importance of patient-specific surgical planning that balances velopharyngeal function with airway safety.

Comparison of Speech Outcomes Following Furlow Z-Plasty Versus Pharyngeal Flap in the Primary Management of Submucous Cleft Palate

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Resumen

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