Multi-specialty care for children with velopharyngeal dysfunction
At the Velopharyngeal Dysfunction Clinic, we evaluate and treat children with disorders of resonance and speech intelligibility caused by issues with palate movement and closure. Our specialized multidisciplinary team helps families navigate between surgical solutions, speech therapy, or a combination of both, depending on each child's specific needs.
Local speech pathologists often refer children to us when structural issues are suspected. We offer detailed diagnostic assessments, differentiating between structural problems needing surgery and those that can be addressed with speech therapy. Our holistic approach ensures comprehensive recommendations tailored specifically to your child.
Many children with velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) also have other complex ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions, including voice disorders. Our clinic uniquely combines expertise in both VPD and voice disorders, allowing us to thoroughly evaluate all aspects influencing your child's speech.
What causes velopharyngeal dysfunction?
Velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) occurs when a child’s soft palate doesn’t close against the back of the throat completely when they talk. As a result, air leaks out through the child’s nose. This can cause children to speak with a nasal quality. They may also have trouble making certain sounds or saying certain words clearly.
Velopharyngeal dysfunction can have structural (related to cleft palate or other palate anomaly), neurological (related to how the brain controls movement of the palate), or functional (learning) causes. Comprehensive assessment is important in determining the cause of velopharyngeal dysfunction and appropriate treatment plans.
Common causes include:
- Cleft palate
- Motor function issues (dysarthria)
- Articulation errors (mislearning related to palate closure)
- Genetic syndromes (e.g., 22q11.2 deletion syndrome)
How we approach velopharyngeal dysfunction
Our multi-disciplinary team of specialists takes a personalized, whole-child approach to treating VPD. Your child’s unique needs will dictate the best treatment approach. Some children will require surgical treatment, speech therapy, or both.
Your child's care team may include:
- Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists)
- Speech-language pathologists (communication experts)
- Plastic surgeons (addressing structural issues related to VPD)
We know medical tests and treatments can be stressful for children. Our dedicated team works closely with each patient, offering comfort and support throughout every stage of their care.
Our team provides a comprehensive, personalized evaluation at your child's initial visit. The journey begins with an in-depth speech and resonance evaluation by our speech-language pathologist, focusing specifically on speech clarity, resonance, and articulation. Next, the medical portion includes a general ENT examination and a detailed endoscopic evaluation of palate movement and closure, conducted in collaboration with our plastic surgeon. Following these evaluations, our specialists review the video findings and collaborate to determine the best treatment path.
If you suspect your child may have VPD, contacting our clinic to schedule a comprehensive evaluation is an important first step.
