ABSTRACT
Dysarthria constitutes one of the most persistent sequelae of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), often remaining beyond the resolution of any concomitant language disorder. The presence of a persistent dysarthria has important implications for long-term quality of life of survivors of severe TBI. Despite the persistent nature of dysarthria in TBI and its potentially devastating social and economic impact on lives of many survivors of TBI, very little research into its nature and severity has been reported. To date, the acoustic characteristics of dysarthria associated with TBI have been poorly defined. Little research has been directed at defining the pathophysiological bases of dysarthric speech disturbance in TBI subjects. Physiological assessments have demonstrated contrasting patterns of laryngeal function in TBI patients with findings of some studies suggestive of hypofunction and others, hyperfunctional patterns. The aim of intervention for TBI individuals with dysarthria is to develop early and effective communication skills by enhancing physiological support for speech and teaching compensatory speech behaviours.
