Related Experiment Videos
Analysing normal and partial glossectomee tongues using ultrasound
Tim Bressmann1, Catherine Uy, Jonathan C Irish
1Graduate Department of Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. tim.bressmann@utoronto.ca
Clinical Linguistics & Phonetics
|February 11, 2005
Summary
Researchers identified three key components of tongue movement using 3D ultrasound and principal component analysis. This functional topography model aids in understanding normal and post-surgical tongue function.
Area of Science:
- Speech Science
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Understanding tongue movement is crucial for speech production.
- Previous models of tongue shape and movement lack detailed functional topographical data.
- Quantifying tongue function is essential for assessing speech disorders and surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the primary parameters governing tongue shape during speech.
- To develop a functional topography of the tongue surface.
- To create a physiologically plausible model of tongue movement.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound imaging.
- Scanned sustained speech sounds from ten healthy subjects.
- Applied principal component analysis (PCA) to 33 tongue surface measurement points.
Main Results:
- Three principal components explained 89.2% of tongue surface variance.
- PCA results supported a three-component model of tongue movement.
- Identified components: posterior protrusion/retraction, anterior tongue tip control, and dorsal height/position control.
Conclusions:
- A functional three-component model of tongue movement was established.
- This model provides a framework for analyzing tongue function.
- The system is applicable to assessing post-surgical tongue function in patients with partial glossectomies.