An approach to evaluation of velopharyngeal adequacy for speech

The diagnosis and evaluation of velopharyngeal concerns is complex. It involves a variety of assessment techniques--both indirect, such as speech, and direct, using instrumentation to delineate how the velopharyngeal structures function. However, the most important tools we have for making decisions regarding velopharyngeal function and need for management are the speech characteristics. From thorough analysis of speech, there is much that can be learned about the status of velopharyngeal function and potential for change. The ultimate question that the speech diagnostician must attempt to answer concerns adequacy of velopharyngeal structures and function for producing acceptable speech.