Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Published on: February 22, 2011
Effect of tongue reduction on articulation in children with Down syndrome
Abstract:
Tongue-reduction surgery was completed on 18 children with Down syndrome. Changes in articulation were evaluated pre- and postoperatively and at a 6-month follow-up. No significant differences in the number of articulation errors were found. The postoperative and 6-month follow-up scores of the surgery group were compared to a nonsurgery (contrast) group (N = 9) who had received two evaluations 6 months apart. Again, no significant differences were found. A follow-up survey of parental ratings on articulation of the surgery and nonsurgery group revealed that there were no significant differences between the groups but that parents of all the children claimed that "speech" had improved over the 6-month time period. These findings suggest that tongue-reduction surgery has no effect on the articulation of sounds.
Related Concept Videos
Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Language Development
The critical period for language acquisition suggests that the ability to acquire language is at its peak early in life. As people age, this proficiency decreases. Language development begins very...
Language and Cognition
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.

