Long time average spectrum and nasometric analysis of cleft palate speech after intensive speech-therapy program with individuals with cleft lip and palate

Abstract

Introduction: Intensive Speech-Therapy Programs (ISTP) have been cited in literature as one of the most effective interventions for speech improvement in individuals with cleft lip and palate. To evaluate the effectiveness of ISTP, perceptual-auditory speech evaluation is considered the gold standard even though it is reported to be a subjective method. Acoustic analysis (spectral and nasometric) are proposed as assessment methods to complement perceptual analysis while identifying the effects of the intervention, controlling in part the subjectivity of the perceptual evaluation. Objective: Verify the efficacy of ISTP to correct cleft palate speech using long time average spectrum (LTAS) and nasometric analysis to compare the outcome before and after treatment. Material and methods: The case series will consist of 40-recorded speech samples from patients with cleft lip and palate submitted to an ISTP. LTAS will be done using the PRAAT Program, and nasometry will be done using the diagnostic algorithms formulas based on linear distinguish analysis of nasalance scores. ANOVA test will be used for comparison of the results before and after ISTP for of both LTAS and nasometry. (AU)