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A technique for temporary obturation of fistulae
The Cleft Palate Journal
|October 1, 1980
Summary
This study introduces a simple dental wax obturator technique to distinguish airflow issues caused by oronasal fistulae versus velopharyngeal port dysfunction. This method aids in diagnosing abnormal nasal airflow in affected speakers.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Aerodynamics
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Abnormal nasal airflow can stem from oronasal fistulae or velopharyngeal port issues.
- Differentiating these sources is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a simple method for differentiating airflow contributions from oronasal fistulae and the velopharyngeal port.
- To assess the utility of temporary obturators in aerodynamic speech analysis.
Main Methods:
- A temporary obturator was fabricated using dental wax and adhesive.
- Aerodynamic speech samples (fricatives, plosives) were collected with and without the obturator.
- Analysis focused on differentiating airflow patterns.
Main Results:
- The temporary obturator effectively differentiated the airflow contributions.
- Aerodynamic analysis with the obturator provided etiological insights into abnormal nasal airflow.
Conclusions:
- This simple obturator technique, combined with aerodynamic studies, is a viable tool for diagnosing the source of abnormal nasal airflow in patients with oronasal fistulae.
- The method aids in pinpointing whether airflow issues originate from the fistula or velopharyngeal port.