Videofluoroscopy Versus Nasopharyngoscopy of Lateral Pharyngeal Wall Movement for Assessment of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency

Abstract

Background: 

Competent speech requires closure of the velopharyngeal sphincter by dynamic apposition of the velum and posterior and lateral pharyngeal walls. An accurate estimation of lateral pharyngeal wall motion is an important determinant in the planning and the outcome of any operation to correct velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI). The purpose was to compare the assessment of lateral pharyngeal wall movement by videofluoroscopy (VP) versus nasopharyngoscopy (NP).

Methods: 

The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 269 consecutive patients in our cleft lip/palate clinic from 1982 to 2008 and culled those treated with a pharyngeal flap for VPI. The authors included patients who were evaluated preoperatively by both VP and NP, and had studies of suitable quality. Percentage of lateral pharyngeal wall motion was estimated with each technique and compared for each patient.

Results: 

The authors identified 25 patients who underwent both VP and NP at the same median age (4.7 years). The estimated percentage of lateral pharyngeal wall motion between the 2 techniques was significantly different (P<0.001). Average lateral pharyngeal wall motion was estimated to be 59±25% (range: 5%–90%) by VP and only 40%±25% (range: 0%–95%) during NP.

Conclusions: 

VP and NP are complementary, but assessment of lateral pharyngeal wall motion can vary between the 2 methods. The surgeon should be aware of the difference in estimated lateral pharyngeal wall movement when planning a procedure to correct VPI.