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Semin Speech Lang 2011; 32(2): 150-158
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1277717
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Types and Causes of Velopharyngeal Dysfunction

Ann W. Kummer1
  • 1Senior Director, Division of Speech Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Publication History

Publication Date:
26 September 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The velopharyngeal valve is responsible for production of oral speech sounds. There are three components to normal velopharyngeal function: anatomy, physiology, and learning. Velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) is a condition where the velopharyngeal valve does not close consistently and completely during the production of oral sounds. Velopharyngeal dysfunction can be caused by abnormal anatomy (velopharyngeal insufficiency), abnormal neurophysiology (velopharyngeal incompetence), or particular articulation errors (velopharyngeal mislearning). The purpose of this article is to acquaint the reader with what is required for normal velopharyngeal function. In addition, there will be a discussion of the types of velopharyngeal dysfunction and various causes of each. Implications for treatment and prognosis will be discussed.

KEYWORDS

Velopharyngeal dysfunction - velopharyngeal insufficiency - velopharyngeal incompetence - velopharyngeal mislearning - cleft palate - hypernasality

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Ann W KummerPh.D. 

Division of Speech Pathology, MLC 4011, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039

Email: ann.kummer@cchmc.org