Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 9, 2026
A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ALS
Published on: February 21, 2011
Predicting Communication-Related Quality of Life in Children With Velopharyngeal Dysfunction
Robert Brinton Fujiki1, John H Munday2, Manasa Harini Kalluri3
1Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Abstract:
ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine factors predicting communication-related quality of life in children with cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP ± L) or congenital velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI).DesignCross-sectional design.SettingOutpatient pediatric craniofacial anomalies clinic.PatientsTwo-hundred and seventy-one children <18 years of age, diagnosed with CP ± L or congenital VPI.Main Outcome MeasureVelopharyngeal Insufficiency Quality of Life (VELO) scores as well as articulation, speech intelligibility, resonance, and voice outcomes were extracted from the electronic medical record in order to characterize communication-related quality of life. Total VELO score, as well as speech limitations, situational difficulty, emotional impact, perception by others and swallow subscores, were collected. Demographic factors, economic deprivation, medical history, and history of palatoplasty/pharyngoplasty were considered. Linear regression identified predictors of VELO total and subscores.ResultsPoorer speech intelligibility and increased hypernasality significantly predicted lower (worse) total VELO scores (P < .01), as well as more severe speech limitations (P < .01), situational difficulty (P < .01), emotional impact (P < .01), and perception by others (P < .01). The presence of glottal stop substitutions also predicted more severe emotional impact (P < .01). A comorbid behavioral health condition predicted significantly lower total VELO scores (P < .01), and children living in neighborhoods experiencing greater socioeconomic deprivation presented with worse swallow section scores (P < .01).ConclusionsHypernasality and decreased speech intelligibility primarily influenced the communication-related quality of life in children with velopharyngeal dysfunction. Additional research is warranted to determine how intervention can best mitigate VPI-related challenges in order to improve social interaction and quality of life.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
01:27Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History
01:29Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:25Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests are crucial diagnostic tools for assessing respiratory function, particularly in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. They comprehensively evaluate lung volumes, ventilatory function, breathing mechanics, diffusion, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose pulmonary diseases and play a significant role in monitoring disease progression, evaluating disability, and assessing response to therapy.
PFTs involve using a spirometer, a...
01:25Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...