Is Pterygoid hamulus fracture a pre requisite for cleft palate surgery? - A Systematic review of surgical, otologic, and speech outcomes

This systematic review investigates whether the fracture of the pterygoid hamulus is necessary during palatoplasty for cleft palate repair and its effects on postoperative outcomes, including surgical success, hearing, and speech. The analysis of seven studies involving 543 patients found no significant differences in audiological, surgical, or speech outcomes between those who underwent hamulotomy and those who did not. The authors conclude that routine fracture of the pterygoid hamulus is not beneficial and should only be considered in select cases where tension-free closure is needed.