Fistula Incidence and Predictors of Fistula Occurrence after Cleft Palate Repair: Two-Stage Closure versus One-Stage Closure

Abstract

This study found a relatively high incidence of fistula formation after cleft palate repair. Although the study populations were not randomized, this study suggests that a two-stage closure has a higher rate of fistula formation when compared with a one-stage closure. This study demonstrates that cleft width at the time of cleft palate repair plays a crucial role in the development of fistulas.