Oral Air Pressure, Nasal Air Flow, and Velopharyngeal Area in the Speech of Young Children

Abstract

There are limited data regarding velopharyngeal (VP) aerodynamics for children younger than six years of age. Aerodynamic data can serve as evidence in the decision-making process regarding adequacy of VP function. Data available for older populations support the conclusion that VP aerodynamics do differ across the age ranges. Velopharyngeal aerodynamics from 32 children with typically developing speech were assessed. The purposes of the study were to describe VP aerodynamic measures in preschool-aged children, evaluate variables other than age as influential factors on these measures, describe stability over two recordings sessions, and compare preschool-aged to school-aged children. Findings were that preschool-aged children had VP aerodynamic measures similar to those from school-aged children. Body size measurements of height, weight, head circumference, chest circumference and cross-sectional VP area were not strong correlates to the VP measures. Nasal flow measures were stable over two recordings, but oral pressure was higher at the second recording.