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Velopharyngeal insufficiency in the facio-auriculo-vertebral malformation complex.
The Cleft Palate Journal
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral Malformation Complex often causes velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) and hypernasal speech due to pharyngeal asymmetry. Facial malformation severity did not correlate with VPI presence in patients.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial abnormalities
- Speech pathology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral Malformation Complex, also known as hemifacial microsomia, is a congenital condition affecting facial development.
- Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) can lead to speech disorders, including hypernasality.
- Understanding the relationship between craniofacial anomalies and VPI is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) in patients with Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral Malformation Complex.
- To explore the correlation between VPI, speech quality, and the severity of facial malformations.
- To identify potential etiological factors for VPI in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Multi-view videofluoroscopy and nasopharyngoscopy were utilized to assess velopharyngeal function.
- Examinations were conducted both at rest and during speech tasks.
- Twenty-two patients diagnosed with Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral Malformation Complex were included in the study.
Main Results:
- Fifty-five percent of the patients exhibited velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) and associated hypernasal speech.
- VPI was predominantly linked to structural and physiological asymmetries within the pharynx.
- A significant correlation between the severity of facial malformations and the presence or absence of VPI was not observed.
- Only two patients with VPI had a concurrent cleft palate, suggesting VPI in this cohort is often not directly related to overt clefts.
Conclusions:
- Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a common complication in patients with Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral Malformation Complex, often stemming from pharyngeal asymmetry.
- The severity of the facial malformation does not appear to predict the likelihood of VPI.
- These findings highlight the importance of dedicated speech and nasopharyngeal assessments in patients with hemifacial microsomia, irrespective of cleft presence or facial anomaly severity.