Our Summary

This research paper is about a homemade simulator created to help surgeons practice repairing cleft palates. Cleft palate surgeries are complex due to the delicate tissues and unique configuration of the mouth. Currently, there are no simulators dedicated to this specific type of surgery. The researchers created a low-cost simulator, designed to accurately represent the mouth’s anatomy, using a steel pipe and a modified spoon. The simulator was tested by senior surgeons, who found it anatomically accurate. The researchers believe this simulator could be a valuable tool for teaching hospitals that handle cleft palate surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What materials were used to create the homemade simulator for cleft palate surgery practice?
  2. How was the effectiveness of the homemade simulator evaluated in this research?
  3. Can this homemade simulator be a beneficial tool for teaching hospitals performing cleft palate surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient undergoing cleft palate surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and attending all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and successful outcomes. Additionally, it may be recommended to participate in speech therapy or other rehabilitation programs to improve speech and swallowing abilities post-surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cleft palate surgery are those born with a cleft palate or cleft lip, which is a birth defect that occurs when the tissues in the roof of the mouth or upper lip do not fuse together properly during fetal development. Cleft palate surgery is usually recommended for infants and children to improve their ability to eat, speak, and breathe properly. In some cases, adults may also undergo cleft palate surgery to improve their speech or appearance. It is important for patients with cleft palate to consult with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including plastic surgeons, otolaryngologists, speech therapists, and orthodontists, to determine the best treatment plan for their specific needs.

Timeline

Before cleft palate surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with a cleft palate either prenatally or shortly after birth
  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and consultations with a team of specialists
  • Patient may undergo speech therapy, dental work, and other preparatory treatments
  • Surgery date is scheduled and patient and family receive preoperative instructions

After cleft palate surgery:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to repair the cleft palate, which typically lasts a few hours
  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any complications
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet and avoid certain activities to allow for proper healing
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor progress and address any concerns

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after cleft palate surgery can vary depending on the individual case and the complexity of the surgery. With proper care and follow-up, most patients experience improved speech, eating, and overall quality of life after cleft palate surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What experience do you have with cleft palate surgeries?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with cleft palate surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be after cleft palate surgery?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  5. What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
  6. How successful is cleft palate surgery in improving speech and feeding difficulties?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for cleft palate besides surgery?
  8. What is the expected outcome of cleft palate surgery in terms of appearance and function?
  9. How many cleft palate surgeries have you performed in the past, and what is your success rate?
  10. Are there any special preparations or precautions that need to be taken before the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Devinck F, Riot S, Qassemyar A, Belkhou A, Wolber A, Martinot Duquennoy V, Guerreschi P. Journal: Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2017 Apr;62(2):167-170. doi: 10.1016/j.anplas.2016.11.002. Epub 2016 Dec 14. PMID: 27988054