ABSTRACT
The velopharyngeal valve is responsible for production of oral speech sounds. There
are three components to normal velopharyngeal function: anatomy, physiology, and learning.
Velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) is a condition where the velopharyngeal valve does not close consistently and
completely during the production of oral sounds. Velopharyngeal dysfunction can be
caused by abnormal anatomy (velopharyngeal insufficiency), abnormal neurophysiology
(velopharyngeal incompetence), or particular articulation errors (velopharyngeal mislearning).
The purpose of this article is to acquaint the reader with what is required for normal
velopharyngeal function. In addition, there will be a discussion of the types of velopharyngeal
dysfunction and various causes of each. Implications for treatment and prognosis will
be discussed.
KEYWORDS
Velopharyngeal dysfunction - velopharyngeal insufficiency - velopharyngeal incompetence
- velopharyngeal mislearning - cleft palate - hypernasality
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Ann W KummerPh.D.
Division of Speech Pathology, MLC 4011, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039
eMail: ann.kummer@cchmc.org