Purpose
The purpose of this tutorial was to describe the surgical management of palate-related abnormalities associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Craniofacial differences in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome may include overt or occult clefting of the palate and/or lip along with oropharyngeal variances that may lead to velopharyngeal dysfunction. This chapter will describe these circumstances, including incidence, diagnosis, and indications for surgical intervention. Speech assessment and imaging of the velopharyngeal system will be discussed as it relates to preoperative evaluation and surgical decision making. Important for patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome is appropriate preoperative screening to assess for internal carotid artery positioning, cervical spine abnormalities, and obstructive sleep apnea. Timing of surgery as well as different techniques, common complications, and outcomes will also be discussed.
Conclusion
Management of velopharyngeal dysfunction in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome is challenging and requires thoughtful preoperative assessment and planning as well as a careful surgical technique.
