Anterior Palatal Fistula Surgical Simulation Lab

Lead Trainer:
Dr. Josep Rubio Palau 

Overview:

Palatal oronasal fistulae are a troublesome complication of cleft palate repair. The extent of the fistula may range from a mere pinhole to near complete breakdown of the repair. These may cause minimal or no symptoms to gross nasal regurgitation or nasal air escape resulting in difficulties in deglutition and speech.

The commonest cause of palatal fistula is poor technique of cleft palate repair. This may include inadequate mobilisation of oral or nasal layer or both or inadvertent vascular injury. The latter often manifests as large anterior palatal fistulae when the greater palatine vessels are damaged. Another commonly encountered problem is junctional fistulas caused by tight closure.

All fistulae except for small anterior fistulae across the alveolar arch need to be closed in two layers. While most fistulae can be surgically closed with adjacent palatal tissue, larger ones may need tissue imported from the tongue, buccal mucosa or elsewhere.

The nasal lining can usually be approximated by dissecting mucosa from the lateral nasal walls with a water-tight seal. The oral lining however is limited. When local tissue is inadequate, depending on the site and size of the fistula, it may require tissue from the buccal mucosa, tongue or pharynx. Exceptional cases may require temporalis muscle or even free tissue transfer from remote locations.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the fistula is only a manifestation of faulty repair and structural and functional rehabilitation will often require a complete revision.

Learning Outcomes:

This workshop is aimed at practising cleft surgeons and trainees to familiarise with the following:

1. Diagnosis
2. Decision making and planning for complete revision or localised repair using local or regional flaps
3. Overview of any orthodontic interventions as preparation
4. Speech evaluation and post-operative speech therapy
5. Familiarise with surgical techniques on simulation models

Content:

1.  Introductory remarks and the decision-making process – 10 minutes
2. Orthodontic/ Speech inputs – 20 minutes
3. Step by step demonstration of the surgical techniques and hands-on  experience on simulation models 90 minutes

4. Closing remarks/ Q & A – 15 minutes

Click here to register. For any questions contact [email protected]

Certification

Upon successful completion of the Palatal Fistula Surgical simulation Lab, participants will receive a prestigious certificate of achievement. This certification not only recognizes their dedication to advancing their skills but also enhances their professional credibility in the medical community.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be a part of this innovative event. Secure your spot at the Palatal Fistula Surgical simulation Lab workshop!

For more information
Email:  [email protected]