ear, nose, and throat disorders
Velopharyngeal Insufficiency
Diagnosis of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency
Direct inspection with a fiberoptic nasoendoscope Velopharyngeal insufficiency is suspected in patients with the typical speech abnormalities. Palpation of the midline of the soft palate may reveal an occult submucous cleft, usually in patients with bifid uvula. Direct inspection with a fiberoptic nasoendoscope is the primary diagnostic technique. Multiview videofluoroscopy during connected speech and swallowing (modified barium swallow), done in conjunction with a speech pathologist, should be used only when other diagnostic measures fail to provide necessary information. 