When either a child or adult has difficulty being understood due to hypernasality (too much air in the nose). Further Surgery for Cleft Palate Speech Related Problems may be helpful.
This may occur following cleft palate repair or because of a hidden or sub mucous cleft. Several assessments are necessary to help decide on the best option.
First an assessment by a highly specialist speech and language therapist. This is then followed by lateral videoflouroscopy and/or nasendoscopy performed so as to clarify the problem.
This can help to decide if surgery would be beneficial or not.
If earlier cleft palate repair has been performed the revision (palate re-repair) or lengthening (buccinator flap) surgery to the palate may be an option.
Alternatively, surgery to the pharynx such as Pharyngoplasty (tissue from behind the tonsil area is moved into the back of the throat to create a narrower opening) may be beneficial.
Further Surgery for Cleft Palate Speech Related Problems to improve the function of the palate usually involves a general anesthetic. This also involves a one-night stay in the hospital. Soft food for about 2 weeks after surgery is usually recommended.