Velum

Velum is a soft, muscular flap that is located in the back of the throat. It is responsible for closing off the nasal passages during the act of swallowing, and also for closing off the airway. In humans, the velum is also called the soft palate.

Anatomy

The velum is situated on the posterior aspect of the oral cavity, separating it from the nasopharynx above. It is a soft, muscular structure, covered by a mucous membrane, which is continuous with the rest of the lining of the oral cavity. The anterior part of the velum is attached to the hard palate, from which it hangs down in a curved manner. The posterior part of the velum is free and pendulous, and its lower surface is in contact with the base of the tongue.

Function

The primary function of the velum is to close off the nasal passages during the act of swallowing, preventing food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity. This is achieved by the upward movement of the velum, which comes into contact with the posterior wall of the pharynx, thereby sealing off the nasopharynx.

In addition to its role in swallowing, the velum also plays a crucial role in speech. By alternating between a raised and lowered position, the velum controls the flow of air through the nose and mouth. This is particularly important for the production of certain speech sounds, known as nasal consonants, which require the passage of air through the nose.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities of the velum can lead to a number of clinical conditions. For example, a cleft palate is a congenital disorder in which the velum does not form properly during fetal development, leading to a gap in the roof of the mouth. This can cause difficulties with feeding, speech, and hearing.

Another condition that can affect the velum is velopharyngeal insufficiency, which is characterized by an inability to close off the nasal passages during speech. This can result in a nasal quality to the voice, as well as problems with speech articulation.

See also

• Palate
• Pharynx
• Speech production
• Cleft palate
• Velopharyngeal insufficiency

Velum Resources
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