SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CONGENITAL CLEFT PALATE IN CHILDREN

Congenital cleft palate is one of the most common craniofacial birth defects, significantly affecting feeding, speech development, hearing, and facial growth in children. Surgical repair remains the cornerstone of management, aiming to achieve anatomical closure, restore velopharyngeal function for normal speech, minimize growth disturbances, and reduce complications such as velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI). This article reviews the indications, timing, common surgical techniques (including von Langenbeck, Furlow double-opposing Z-plasty, and intravelar veloplasty), perioperative considerations, and outcomes of cleft palate repair in pediatric patients. Early intervention, multidisciplinary care, and individualized approaches are emphasized to optimize long-term functional and aesthetic results.