ABSTRACT
Introduction A cleft: palate has tremendous aesthetic and functional implications for patients
in their social interactions, particularly on their ability to communicate effectively and on their facial appearance. The treatment plan focuses on two areas: speech development and facial growth. Speech development is paramount in the appropri ate management of cleft palate. Many surgical techniques and modifications have been advocated to improve functional outcome and aesthetic results. The most con troversial issues in the management of cleft palate are the timing of surgical inter vention, speech development after various surgical procedures and the effects of surgery on facial growth.
