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[Evaluation of speech aid's function with air flow pressure techniques]
G M Wang1, W H Yuan, D W Warren
1Craniofacial Center, Shanghai Second Medical University. Shanghai 200011,China.
Summary
This study shows that speech aids can improve velopharyngeal function in patients with velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) and hypernasal speech. These findings offer valuable clinical insights for speech therapists working with VPI patients.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Medical Devices
- Craniofacial Anomalies
Background:
- Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) causes hypernasal speech due to inadequate closure between the nose and mouth.
- Patients with cleft palate and related conditions often experience VPI.
- Speech aids are a potential intervention for managing VPI and improving speech resonance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a speech aid in improving velopharyngeal function.
- To assess the impact of the speech aid on oral-nasal resonance in VPI patients.
- To determine the clinical utility of speech aids for speech therapy.
Main Methods:
- The study included 12 patients diagnosed with VPI, including those with cleft palate, submucous cleft palate, and congenital VPI.
- Patients presented with hypernasal speech and were candidates for speech aid intervention.
- The study assessed oral-nasal resonance with and without the use of the speech aid.
Main Results:
- The speech aid demonstrated an ability to modify oral-nasal resonance patterns.
- A positive correlation was observed between the use of the speech aid and improved velopharyngeal function.
- The study confirmed the speech aid's role in managing hypernasality associated with VPI.
Conclusions:
- Speech aids can effectively enhance velopharyngeal function in select VPI patients.
- The use of speech aids provides beneficial clinical outcomes for speech therapy.
- This intervention represents a valuable tool for speech-language pathologists treating VPI.