Improving imaging techniques to assess speech function in children with cleft palate
Using Atlas-driven Imaging for Determining Variations in Velopharyngeal Function Among Children with Cleft Palate and Hypernasal Speech
This study is looking at how kids aged 5 to 8 with cleft palate use their mouths and throats when they talk, using special MRI technology to take detailed pictures of their speech movements, which will help doctors understand their needs better and improve treatments for clearer speech.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10408697 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced imaging methods to better understand how children with cleft palate use their vocal tract during speech. By utilizing a dynamic MRI technique, the study aims to capture high-resolution images of speech movements in real-time, specifically targeting children aged 5-8 years old. This innovative approach will provide detailed insights into the velopharyngeal function, which is crucial for diagnosing and planning effective surgical interventions for hypernasal speech. The research seeks to create a comprehensive atlas of normal speech patterns to compare against those of children with cleft palate.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 5-8 years old who have been diagnosed with cleft palate and experience hypernasal speech.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a cleft palate or are outside the age range of 5-8 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored surgical treatments for children with cleft palate, improving their speech outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for speech analysis, but this specific dynamic MRI approach is novel and untested in this context.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sutton, Bradley P — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Sutton, Bradley P
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.