This study is for head and neck cancer survivors who experience velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD), a condition where the soft palate and back of the throat don't close properly. This can lead to nasal-sounding speech, food or liquid going into the nose, and difficulty swallowing. The study aims to better understand VPD in this group and to see if a procedure called pharyngeal wall augmentation injection can help. This injection adds a biocompatible material to the back of the throat to improve closure. You might be eligible if you are an English-speaking adult (18 or older) with a history of head and neck cancer and have nasal-sounding speech. The study will assess how well certain tools (nasometry and FEES) can identify VPD.

Study design

This is a prospective study with a planned enrollment of 20 participants. It uses a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate speech and swallowing function.

What's involved

Participants will undergo a physical exam, flexible nasolaryngoscopy, speech recording, nasometry, clinical swallowing evaluation, and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). Some participants may also receive a pharyngeal wall augmentation injection.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

The primary endpoint, feasibility of nasometry and FEES, is measured at the baseline assessment. Further follow-up duration is not specified.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.