velopharyngeal insufficiency
Pronunciation: vee-low-fah-RIN-jee-al
Also written as: VPI — velopharyngeal insufficiency
Incomplete closure of the soft palate against the posterior pharyngeal wall, resulting in speech and swallowing difficulties.
Full Definition
A functional disorder characterized by inadequate separation of the oral and nasal cavities during speech and swallowing due to incomplete velopharyngeal closure. This condition commonly occurs after surgical resection of oropharyngeal tumors, particularly those involving the soft palate or posterior tongue base. Patients typically present with hypernasal speech, nasal regurgitation of liquids, and compromised speech intelligibility. Management may include speech therapy, prosthetic devices, or surgical correction depending on the severity and underlying anatomy.
Usage
Usage note: VPI is the preferred abbreviation in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Speech evaluation revealed moderate velopharyngeal insufficiency following soft palate resection." — Speech pathology assessment
- "The patient developed velopharyngeal insufficiency requiring prosthetic obturator placement." — Treatment planning note