Application of obturator to treat velopharyngeal incompetence.

Author: Jian SUN ¹ ; Ningyi LI ; Guilan SUN
Author Information

1. Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao Medical College, Qingdao University, China.
Publication Type:Journal Article
MeSH: Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Humans; Infant; Palatal Obturators; Velopharyngeal Insufficiency; therapy
From: Chinese Medical Journal 2002;115(6):842-845
CountryChina
Language:English
Abstract:
OBJECTIVETo evaluate the effect of a system of velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI) management after the application of obturator.
METHODSUsing nasopharyngofiberoscope (NPF) and a computer analysis system, we quantitatively analyzed the improved state of velopharyngeal incompetence in 100 patients with unilateral and/or bilateral cleft palate.
RESULTSThe velopharyngeal closure (VPC) can be greatly improved by using a temporary oral prosthesis (obturator) and speech training. An objective quantitative standard was established to evaluate the change of velopharyngeal closure of cleft palate patients after surgery and conservative treatment.
CONCLUSIONSThe method used is more succinct, accurate and practical than previous methods. In order to reflect the state of velopharyngeal incompetence, the concept of improvement rate of velopharyngeal incompetence (IRVPI) is put forward.