Comparative analysis of velopharyngeal activity assessed by acoustic rhinometry and nasoendoscopy

Author(s)

Andressa Sharllene Carneiro da Silva

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Bauru.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB/SDB)
• Defense date: 2013-04-09

Examining board members

Inge Elly Kiemle Trindade; Giedre Berretin Felix; Cristina Guedes de Azevedo Bento Gonçalves

• Advisor: Inge Elly Kiemle Trindade

Abstract

Objective: To analyze velopharyngeal (VP) activity of subjects with VP dysfunction (VPD) by acoustic rhinometry, compared to the activity observed by nasoendoscopy. Model: Prospective clinical study. Participants: 25 adults with repaired cleft palate±lip and residual VPD, of both genders. Outcome measures: Nasopharyngeal volume change (V) during the production of the velar plosive /k/ compared to the rest condition, measured by rhinometry, and VP closure pattern and VP structures movement during /k/ production, rated by blinded judges by observing nasoendoscopy recordings. Results: A mean nasopharyngeal volume decrease of 15% was observed, significantly lower (p<0.05) than the reference percentage of change (30%). In 72% of patients reduction was <3cm3, compatible with VPD diagnosis, and in 28%, there was a change 3cm3, despite VPD. A circular gap (CI) was observed in 76% of patients and a coronal gap (CO) in 24%. The VP movement was judged to be adequate (A), moderate (M) and inadequate (I) in 64%, 24% and 18%, respectively. V did not differ between CI and CO and between A, M and I. A tendency for a V increase with increasing VP movement was observed. Absolute agreement between the two methods was observed in 56% of patients. Conclusion: Rhinometry was able to identify the impairment of VP activity in most subjects. However, nasopharyngeal volume changes showed no correlation with the pattern and range of VP movement, possibly due to methodological issues. Additional studies are needed to define the rhinometric test\'s accuracy in identifying VPD. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/13779-8 - Comparative analysis of velar activity assessed by acoustic rhinometry and nasopharyngoscopy in velopharyngeal dysfunction
• Grantee: Andressa Sharllene Carneiro da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master