Single layer closure of palatal fistula using anteriorly based dorsal tongue flap

Palatal fistulas are the common complications seen after cleft palate repair. Small fistula may be asymptomatic, the large ones produce various symptoms including regurgitation of fluids into nasal cavity and interference with normal speech. Although small fistulas can be successfully treated with local flaps such as palatal or buccal mucosal flaps, large fistulas pose difficulty. Because of rich blood supply, tongue is a suitable and convenient source of large flap. The anterior based dorsal tongue flap is a safe and effective method for closure of relatively large recurrent palatal fistula with out any functional impairment of donor site. This article describes one such case treated by single layer closure using anteriorly based tongue flap with excellent outcome. © 2009, Springer.