The efficacy of speech and language therapy for cleft palate speech disorders

Abstract

ABSTRACT The incidence of cleft palate is approximately 1 in 600 live births, and when velopharyngeal disorders (sub‐mucous cleft, pharyngeal disproportion, neurological disorders affecting the velopharynx) are added, most speech and language therapists will treat one or more of this client group in their career. There is a dearth of research literature on the efficacy of therapy, but evidence will be considered related to (1) Type of therapy (neither traditional articulation therapy nor phonological therapy is appropriate in isolation, they need to work hand in hand for maximum efficacy — how is this achieved?). (2) Timing of therapy (more speech and language therapists are working in a preventative role with the parents of infants and toddlers to encourage good feeding, language and phonological development — is this justified by the research literature in terms of outcome and time spent? Controversy exists over whether to correct articulation pre‐ or post‐pharyngoplasty — do we have enough evidence to say which is more ?ffective?). (3) Frequency of therapy — are intensive courses more effective long‐term than conventional weekly therapy?