Velopharyngeal incompetence (failure of the soft palate to affect closure of the nasopharynx) may result in hypernasal or unintelligible speech, chronic otitis media with secondary conductive hearing loss, or even pseudomental retardation. Such devastating consequences make early diagnosis mandatory.
Here is an excellent ca se illustration, review of the literature, and a diagnostic checklist for office use.
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References
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2.
Hagerty, R.F. and Hill, M.J.: Cartilage pharyngoplasty in cleft palate patients. Surg. Gynec. Obstet.112: 350, 1961 .
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