An instrument for the non-invasive objective assessment of velar function during speech.

This paper describes the development of a non-invasive, computer-based, clinical instrument that infers velar function by way of the measurement of nasal and oral airflow. The design criteria of the instrument were based upon a wide ranging review of current practice and available techniques. The instrument measures and displays both nasal and oral airflow, along with the envelope of the speech sound waveform. This allows the clinician to determine whether airflow is associated with oral or nasal airflow and, hence, to infer the position of the velum. Preliminary clinical trials suggest that the instrument provides valuable objective information about the movement of the soft palate, particularly within the time domain. Hence, it is believed that the device provides additional information for the assessment of velar function, complementing those techniques currently employed.

Assessment in the treatment of hypernasal speech with motor neuron disease: a clinical report.

The application of nasal anemometry in this patient's treatment proved to be of value in obtaining an objective assessment of this intervention. Nasal anemometry may be of use in other situations, for example, (1) in preassessment and postassessment of cleft palate surgery and surgical interventions to improve the velopharyngeal seal (such as pharyngoplasty), (2) in the evaluation of nasalized speech with conventional speech therapy, (3) in the evaluation of nasalized speech by use of a palatal training appliance, and (4) in the investigation of snoring.