The Non-Cleft Velopharyngeal Incompetency (VPI) Clinic at Children’s Health provides comprehensive evaluations to children with speech problems caused by hypernasality, or nasal air escape.  The soft palate is a muscle located in the back of the mouth and it separates the mouth from the nose. When this muscle doesn’t work well, then your child’s speech may sound unusual or have a nasal quality.  

Our collaborative approach to care includes your child’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and a speech-language pathologist. Our experienced team develops a treatment plan that may include options such as surgery, orthodontic appliances, and/or speech therapy. We will work with you to understand all of your choices so that you can make informed decisions about your child’s care.