Nasal Papilloma, a Rare Late Complication of Tongue Flap Repair of Palatal Fistula

Abstract

The use of a tongue flap for treatment of palatal fistulae is a well-established procedure, but it is not without complication. We report on a patient who underwent palatal fistula closure with tongue flap as a child, who then developed a nasal papilloma from the mucosa of the tongue flap 40 years later. This case is the first of its kind to be reported and emphasizes the need for long-term follow-up because the tongue mucosa is vulnerable to many diseases.

Reconstruction of persistent oronasal communication using an anteriorly based tongue flap following failed cleft palate repair—Report of two cases

“…17 Some of the drawbacks of the tongue flap are the difficulties in intubation and extubation intraoperatively, limited intraoral function, and risk of detachment. 12,18 Additionally, it is a two-staged procedure that requires the division of the pedicle after a period of 2-3 weeks. This may result in some clinicians advocating for the use of distant flaps instead.…”