When this mechanism is impaired in some way, the valve does not fully close, and a condition known as "velopharyngeal inadequacy" can develop.

Cleft palate is an anatomical abnormality that occurs in utero and is present at birth.

A cleft palate can affect the mobility of the velopharyngeal valve, thereby resulting in VPI.

[citation needed] A common method to treat Velopharyngeal insufficiency is pharyngeal flap surgery, where tissue from the back of the mouth is used to close part of the gap.

Other ways of treating velopharyngeal insufficiency is by placing a posterior nasopharyngeal wall implant (commonly cartilage or collagen) or type of soft palate lengthening procedure (i.e. VY palatoplasty).