Does MRI contribute to the investigation of palatal function?

The results of a pilot study into the value of MRI scanning in investigatio n of velopharyngeal function an discussed. MRI offers potential advantage o ver naso-endoscopy in being noninvasive and over video fluoroscopy in avoid ing radiation. However, it requires costly equipment and patient cooperatio n, which limits its use in young patients. Tell normal volunteers and 15 pa tients with speech problems underwent MRI of the velopharyngeal port at res t and during sustained phonation of word lai. Optimal planes for scanning w ere determined. Images were obtained in mid-sagittal, coronal and horizonta l planes at the level of the hard palate and in the plane of the levator ax is. Computer assisted measurements were possible of the velopharyngeal clos ure, forward movement of posterior pharyngeal wall, velar lift, velar exten sibility and medial movement of the lateral pharyngeal wall. MRI has a pote ntial role in investigation of velopharyngeal incompetence and planning its surgical repair. (C) 2000 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.