Paediatric velopharyngeal insufficiency following adenotonsillar surgery.

Objective: Paediatric velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a known but rare complication following adenotonsillar surgery that can have significant adverse effects on the communication as well as psychological well-being of the patient and their family. We sought to assess risk factors, aetiology, assessment and management of these patients through a dedicated multidisciplinary clinic.

Methods: Retrospective data collection was performed for patients seen in the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children multidisciplinary VPI clinic from the 1 of January 2015 until 30 of April 2020.

Impact of orthodontic appliances on the quality of craniofacial anatomical magnetic resonance imaging and real-time speech imaging.

Aims: The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of commonly used orthodontic appliances on the magnetic resonance (MR) image quality of the craniofacial region, with special interest in the soft palate and velopharyngeal wall using real-time speech imaging sequences and anatomical imaging of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and pituitaries.

Methods: Common orthodontic appliances were studied on 1.5 T scanner using standard spin and gradient echo sequences (based on the American Society for Testing and Materials standard test method) and sequences previously applied for high-resolution anatomical and dynamic real-time imaging during speech.

Palate lengthening by buccinator myomucosal flaps for velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Unlabelled: OBJECTIVE : To assess the outcome of palate lengthening by myomucosal buccinator flaps for velopharyngeal insufficiency both in terms of speech and changes in palate length. DESIGN : Thirty-two consecutive patients who underwent the buccinator flap procedure were reviewed retrospectively. Palate length and the presence or absence of a velopharyngeal gap were assessed on pre- and postoperative videofluoroscopic recordings using a calibrated image analysis system.