The definitions for pertinent measurements for quantitatively examining VPIa,44
| Variable | Description |
|---|---|
| Pharyngeal depth | Linear distance (mm) from PNS to PPW or adenoid pad as seen on the midsagittal image |
| Velar length | Curvilinear distance (mm) from the posterior nasal spine to the tip of the uvula as seen on the midsagittal image |
| VP ratio | Calculation obtained from the dividing velar length by pharyngeal depth |
| Effective velar length | Linear distance (mm) from the posterior border of the hard palate to the point of levator muscle insertion into the velum as seen on the midsagittal image |
| EVP ratio | Calculation obtained from dividing effective velar length by the pharyngeal depth |
| Adenoid depth | Linear distance (mm) along the palatal plane from the adenoid pad to the posterior end of the adenoid |
Note:—PNS indicates posterior nasal spine; PPW, posterior pharyngeal wall; VP, velopharyngeal; EVP, effective VP.
↵a Adapted with permission from Perry JL, Kotlarek KJ, Sutton BP, et al. Variations in velopharyngeal structure in adults with repaired cleft palate. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2018;55:1409-18.