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Efficacy of Ultrasound Biofeedback in Brazilian Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Sponsor: Aline Mara de Oliveira
Summary
This study is a single-blind, randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of ultrasound visual biofeedback (UVB) in the treatment of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) among Brazilian children. Approximately half of the participants are randomly assigned to an Experimental group receiving the ultrasound biofeedback intervention, and the other half to a Control group receiving conventional motor-based therapy without ultrasound. Randomization is performed using a computer-generated sequence (allocation ratio 1:1), with allocation concealment (e.g. sealed opaque envelopes) to prevent selection bias. Blinding is maintained for outcome assessment: an independent speech-language pathologist who is masked to group assignment will evaluate pre- and post-therapy speech samples for all children. Neither the therapists nor the participants are blinded (due to the nature of the intervention), but the use of blinded outcome evaluators helps ensure objective assessment.
Official title: Efficacy of Ultrasound Biofeedback in Brazilian Childhood Apraxia of Speech: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
5 Years - 16 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
20
Start Date
2025-08-06
Completion Date
2026-01-15
Last Updated
2025-07-25
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Ultrasound Visual Feedback
Speech therapy using real-time ultrasound imaging to provide visual feedback on tongue placement and movement. Aimed at improving speech accuracy and motor planning in children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). The intervention follows principles of motor learning and includes 12 individual sessions over 6 weeks (twice per week). Practice alternates between ultrasound-assisted and non-assisted phases to promote generalization.
Traditional Speech Therapy
Standard speech motor therapy for children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), based on evidence-based motor learning approaches. No visual feedback tools are used. Therapy focuses on blocked and random practice, varied feedback, and increasing speech complexity. Delivered in 12 sessions over 6 weeks (twice per week).
Locations (1)
Prof. Dr. Aline Mara de Oliveira
Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil