A Tendon Transplant Pharyngopalatoplasty

Abstract

A new phmyngopalatoplasty procedure utilizing a palmaris longus tendon graft has achieved consistently gratifying results in selected patients with functional palatal musculature. Although originally proposed as a dynamic pharyngopalatoplasty, this technique may also be successfully used as an aid in the salvage of the multiply operated, extensively scarred, and still incompetent palate. This paper describes the evolution of the current procedures and details of the operative technique. Intraoperative photographs of an illustrative case are included. Experience with a preliminary series of thirteen varied patients with follow—ups ranging from seven years, eight months, to one year, eight months, is reported. The results are discussed. The apparent advantages and disadvantages and the indications for the use of the procedure in selected cases are discussed.