Understanding videofluoroscopic assessment during speech production

Objective: Velopharyngeal dysfunction is a documented outcome after primary palatoplasty. Management of this condition may require videofluoroscopic assessment of velopharyngeal function during speech production. The objective of this study was to develop a material to help patients and caregivers understand videofluoroscopic exam of the velopharyngeal function. Method: Indication, procedures and interpretation of videofluoroscopic assessment during speech production was described and narrated in the format of an educational script. Video recordings of the exam and illustrations of the procedures were combined to the script into a power point presentation with the audio narrative. An analogy of the vocal tract to a two-story house and a model of the head in a sagittal cut were used to help caregivers interpret the images of the structures locate inside the head and out of view. Results: After accessing the material parents and caregivers are expected to: understand the purpose of the exam; identify the structures of interest; understand the dynamic X-ray images of the velopharynx during speech; and understand the relationship between the videofluoroscopic images and the velopharyngeal dysfunction. Conclusion: This material can assist patients and caregivers understand the videofluoroscopy of speech and its importance in the treatment decision process for management of VPD