Velopharyngeal port

Velopharyngeal port

The velopharyngeal port is an anatomical structure located in the human pharynx. It plays a crucial role in speech production and swallowing. The velopharyngeal port is the space between the soft palate (also known as the velum) and the pharyngeal wall. Proper functioning of this port is essential for normal speech and swallowing.

Anatomy

The velopharyngeal port is bordered by several important structures:

• The soft palate (velum) - a muscular flap that can move to open or close the port.
• The pharyngeal wall - the back wall of the throat.
• The nasopharynx - the upper part of the pharynx, connecting to the nasal cavity.
• The oropharynx - the middle part of the pharynx, behind the oral cavity.

Function

The primary function of the velopharyngeal port is to regulate the flow of air between the nasal cavity and the oral cavity. During speech, the port opens and closes to allow for the production of different sounds. For example:

• When producing nasal sounds like /m/, /n/, and /ŋ/, the port remains open, allowing air to pass through the nasal cavity.
• For non-nasal sounds, the port closes, directing air through the oral cavity.

In addition to its role in speech, the velopharyngeal port is also important in swallowing. It closes to prevent food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity.

Velopharyngeal Insufficiency

Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a condition where the velopharyngeal port does not close properly. This can result in hypernasal speech and difficulty swallowing. VPI can be caused by various factors, including:

• Cleft palate
• Neurological disorders
• Surgical complications

Treatment for VPI may involve speech therapy, surgical intervention, or the use of prosthetic devices.

Assessment

Assessment of the velopharyngeal port function is typically conducted by a speech-language pathologist or an otolaryngologist. Methods of assessment may include:

• Nasopharyngoscopy - a procedure using a flexible scope to visualize the port.
• Videofluoroscopy - an imaging technique to observe the movement of the port during speech and swallowing.

See Also

• Speech production
• Swallowing
• Soft palate
• Pharynx
• Nasopharynx
• Oropharynx
• Velopharyngeal insufficiency