A Teaching Device for Furlow Palatoplasty

Abstract

The Furlow double-opposing z-plasty technique of palate repair has become a common treatment for cleft palate. The procedure is more complicated than other methods of palate closure and is difficult for the trainee to visualize; It Is even more difficult for the layperson without prior understanding of the concept of z-plasty to understand. A simple, inexpensive, portable model is described that shows the key elements of the repair and can be used for parent, patient, student, and resident teaching.