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Articulation and nasality changes resulting from sustained palatal fistula obturation
J Pinborough-Zimmerman1, C Canady, D K Yamashiro
1Child Development Clinic, Utah Department of Health, Department of Communication Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84114-4640, USA.
Summary
Obturation of palatal fistulas in children significantly improves speech articulation and reduces hypernasality over 4-7 weeks. This treatment enhances clinical management and may prevent unnecessary surgery for velopharyngeal dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Craniofacial Anomalies
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
Background:
- Palatal fistulas, often resulting from repaired cleft palates, can negatively impact speech production.
- Assessing velopharyngeal function and speech characteristics is crucial for managing these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of palatal obturation over time on articulation and nasality in children with palatal fistulas.
Main Methods:
- 15 children with palatal fistulas underwent speech and nasality assessments.
- Measurements included listener judgments, standardized articulation tests, and instrumental nasalance ratings.
- Assessments were conducted before obturation, immediately after, and 4-7 weeks post-obturation.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in nasal emissions were noted immediately after obturation.
- Articulation, hypernasality, and nasalance scores improved significantly between pre-obturation and 4-7 weeks post-obturation.
- No adverse effects on speech were observed with sustained obturation.
Conclusions:
- Palatal obturation is an effective treatment that enhances speech outcomes in children with palatal fistulas.
- Sustained obturation is recommended for persistent hypernasality before considering surgical interventions.