Velopharyngeal Dysfunction VPD Program
Special Expertise for a Complex Speech Disorder
Nemours Children’s offers the latest evaluation and treatment for children with velopharyngeal dysfunction, or VPD (nasal speech). Our team includes pediatric plastic surgeons, speech-language pathologists otolaryngologists, pulmonologists and others who have unmatched experience managing VPD.
We understand how VPD can affect the way your child is understood and interacts with the world. We use the latest evaluation methods and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to find the type of VPD your child has, and what’s causing it.
Depending on your child’s needs, we work together with your family to help you make the best care decisions. Our plastic surgeons, speech-language pathologists, dietitians and others are all right here, in one place.
And we go beyond world-class medical care. Our Child Life specialists, social workers and other support team members help your child succeed and reach their full potential.
Meet the Team
Our Central Florida VPD Program is part of the recognized Center for Cleft & Craniofacial Differences. We’re here from the start, helping your child grow and develop to their full potential. Meet them now.
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Brittany Johnson, BSN, BS, RN
Plastic Surgery Craniofacial Team CoordinatorPrimary Office
Orlando, FL
Our Services
Velopharyngeal dysfunction happens when air and sound energy escape out of the nose during speech. The result is a nasal-sounding speech, which can affect social, academic and professional communication. VPD can be caused by cleft palate, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, traumatic brain injury and more.
We work to understand the cause of VPD and design the most effective plan for the best possible outcomes. Our care includes:
- Highly specialized speech therapy to confirm the diagnosis of VPD and correct any speech articulation errors prior to surgery
- Gold standard imaging techniques, including video nasoendoscopy, which involves inserting a small camera to view the area above the soft palate during speech
- Advanced imaging methods, like video fluoroscopy (moving X-rays) from multiple angles, or even MRIs for the most detailed pictures of anatomy and function
- Genetic testing and counseling for conditions that may be inherited or have a genetic cause
- Feeding and swallowing therapies to enhance function, health and recovery
- Seamless with other pediatric specialists as needed, such as otolaryngologists, neurologists and others
- Support services, including social work, Child Life services, counseling and coping support and more
See Why Central Florida Families Choose Us
The Center for Cleft & Craniofacial Differences in Central Florida brings together all the care your child needs — from surgery and medical management to rehabilitation therapies and support for the whole family.
Based at the area’s only standalone children’s hospital, see how our team provides compassionate, customized care, close to home.
Complete Care for Your Child
Our goal is to ensure that VPD does not affect your child’s ability to make friends and socialize, or to be understood by their teachers and peers. We partner with you to care for your child throughout your journey.
We offer the full range of services. Everything your child needs is here, in one place.
Our VPD program is part of a center that’s approved by the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association. You can trust we offer the highest level of quality care.
Your child’s care is provided by board-certified plastic surgeons and other advanced pediatric specialists.
Your child’s well-being is our top priority. We work closely with your family to help you make the best decisions.
What is VPD? Learn more about this condition, causes, treatments and how you can help your child from the trusted experts at Nemours KidsHealth®.
A nasopharyngoscopy is an exam doctors do to view the back of the throat using a flexible tube called a scope. See how it’s done.
Many kids with VPD need speech-language therapy. Find out what to expect at your child’s visit.
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Conditions & Treatments
We see many conditions — far too many to list here. The conditions we treat vary depending on the location and providers selected. Don’t see a condition listed? Call us.
Related Specialties & Programs
Convenient Follow-Up Appointments by Video
We offer follow-up appointments through scheduled, live video visits. You can avoid waiting rooms and save travel time. Ask your doctor if this is an option for your family.