The Basics of Velopharyngeal Function: A Brief Review for the Practicing Clinician

In this article, I will provide a basic overview of the normal anatomy and physiology of velopharyngeal function. I will address topics such as the gross anatomy of the velopharyngeal mechanism, identification of the anatomy and function of the velopharyngeal musculature, and patterns of velopharyngeal closure that occur. I will also summarize the role of the velopharyngeal mechanism as it relates to aero-acoustic aspects of speech. Although the focus of this article is normal anatomy, I do include references to abnormal anatomy (e.g. cleft palate). I will include key points to an oral mechanism examination as it pertains to velopharyngeal function.