Evaluating speech function in children with cleft palate

Prospective Evaluation of Speech Function Through Patient- and Parent-response Outcome Measurements Following Surgical Treatment of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency in Children With Isolated or Combined Cleft Palate

Umeå University · NCT05838261

This study is testing how well pharyngeal flap surgery improves speech in children with cleft palate and whether it helps them communicate better and feel less stigmatized.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages0 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorUmeå University (other)
Locations6 sites (Gothenburg and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05838261 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates speech function in children with velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) who are undergoing pharyngeal flap surgery. It focuses on collecting patient- and parent-reported outcome measurements to assess the impact of the surgery on speech and communication. The study aims to understand the effectiveness of surgical interventions in improving speech outcomes and reducing social stigmatization associated with VPI. Participants will include children under 18 years old with isolated or combined cleft palate from specialized cleft centers in Sweden.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children under 18 years old with isolated or combined cleft palate who are scheduled for pharyngeal flap surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments that hinder their understanding of the study will not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved speech outcomes and quality of life for children with cleft palate.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in evaluating speech outcomes following surgical interventions for cleft palate, indicating that this approach is supported by existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All children \< 18 years of age with isolated or combined cleft palate that will undergo pharyngeal flap surgery due to velopharyngeal insufficiency, as well as their parents, in any of the 6 specialized cleft center in Sweden.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cognitive impairment making it difficult to understand the study.

Where this trial is running

Gothenburg and 5 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Velopharyngeal Insufficiency in Children With Isolated or Combined Cleft Palate, Velopharyngeal insufficiency, Pharyngeal flap, Patient- and parent-reported outcome measurements, Cleft palate

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.