Comparing surgical options for treating speech issues after cleft palate repair
Velopharyngeal insufficiency following cleft palate repair: a comparative effectiveness study of existing surgical procedures and identification of criteria to guide a personalized treatment approach
This study is looking at two types of surgeries to help kids with speech problems caused by a condition called velopharyngeal insufficiency after they’ve had cleft palate repair, to see which one works better and to find out what physical traits might help predict success.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Phoenix Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Phoenix, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10879083 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of two surgical procedures, palate re-repair and pharyngoplasty, for treating velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) in children who have undergone cleft palate repair. VPI can lead to speech difficulties, and while pharyngoplasty is commonly used, it may cause obstructive sleep apnea in some patients. The study aims to determine which surgical option is more effective and to identify specific anatomical factors that predict successful outcomes. By understanding these factors, the research seeks to guide personalized treatment approaches for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced velopharyngeal insufficiency following cleft palate repair.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cleft palate or velopharyngeal insufficiency may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical outcomes and better speech quality for children with VPI, reducing the risk of complications like obstructive sleep apnea.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar surgical approaches, but this study aims to provide more definitive comparisons and personalized treatment criteria.
Where this research is happening
Phoenix, United States
- Phoenix Children's Hospital — Phoenix, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sitzman, Thomas James — Phoenix Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sitzman, Thomas James
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.