Reliability of nasofibroscopy for the evaluation of adenoid hypertrophy and its correlation with clinical symptoms

Abstract Objective: To analyze the reliability of estimating the percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction by the adenoid using nasofibroscopy and its correlation with clinical symptoms. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study was conducted, involving 80 patients between 4 and 14 years old, recruited from Santa Casa of São Paulo general otorhinolaryngology outpatient service during the years of 2020 and 2021. All patients underwent nasal endoscopy examination, and the recorded videos were randomly assigned to four evaluators in two different sessions, with a minimum interval of 1 month. The evaluators estimated the percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction caused by the adenoid. Intra- and inter-evaluator correlations were established by comparing the reports from each evaluator. The data were compared to the Pro Image J Software report, that also estimates a percentage of obstruction by computer graphics. To correlate the grading of obstruction with clinical symptoms, all patients completed the OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) 18 questionnaire, a validated tool for assessing sleep apnea in children. The questionnaire data were then compared to the average scores assigned by the evaluators. Results: Satisfactory intra- and inter-rater correlations were observed, and the results were consistent with the Pro Image J Software. However, no correlation was found between the percentage of obstruction and the severity of clinical symptoms. Conclusion: Nasofibroscopy demonstrates good reliability in assessing a percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction caused by adenoids. However, there is no correlation between the degree of obstruction of the rhinopharynx and the clinical symptoms. Level of evidence: 4.

Reliability of nasofibroscopy for the evaluation of adenoid hypertrophy and its correlation with clinical symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the reliability of estimating the percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction by the adenoid using nasofibroscopy and its correlation with clinical symptoms. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study was conducted, involving 80 patients between 4 and 14 years old, recruited from Santa Casa of São Paulo general otorhinolaryngology outpatient service during the years of 2020 and 2021. All patients underwent nasal endoscopy examination, and the recorded videos were randomly assigned to four evaluators in two different sessions, with a minimum interval of 1 month. The evaluators estimated the percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction caused by the adenoid. Intra- and inter-evaluator correlations were established by comparing the reports from each evaluator. The data were compared to the Pro Image J Software report, that also estimates a percentage of obstruction by computer graphics. To correlate the grading of obstruction with clinical symptoms, all patients completed the OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) 18 questionnaire, a validated tool for assessing sleep apnea in children. The questionnaire data were then compared to the average scores assigned by the evaluators. RESULTS: Satisfactory intra- and inter-rater correlations were observed, and the results were consistent with the Pro Image J Software. However, no correlation was found between the percentage of obstruction and the severity of clinical symptoms. CONCLUSION: Nasofibroscopy demonstrates good reliability in assessing a percentage of rhinopharyngeal obstruction caused by adenoids. However, there is no correlation between the degree of obstruction of the rhinopharynx and the clinical symptoms.

Dysphonia and Throat Clearing in Singers During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil affected the lives of singers, with negative impacts of the disease on the voice, such as dysphonia and throat clearing. This study aims to evaluate the presence of dysphonia and throat clearing in singers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional analytical study with a sample of 154 singers from all over Brazil. Data collection was carried out online, by completing the questionnaire created by the researcher using Google Forms. The following were considered the outcome variables: voice impairment and throat clearing. The bivariate analysis was performed to test the relationship between COVID-19 infection and voice impairment, COVID-19 infection and throat clearing, COVID-19 infection and laryngeal complaints (voice impairment and throat clearing). RESULTS: In this study, the mean age of the singers was 35.8 (Standard deviation = ±10.2 years) and 59.2% were female. Most of them worked as professional singers (81.1%) and had more than 10 years of professional experience (57.4%), mainly singing pop music (85.4%). A total of 62% reported vocal alterations during the COVID-19 infection and 53% had vocal alterations after the infection, with 44.0% reporting the onset of throat clearing after the infection. There was a significant association between COVID-19 infection and having voice impairment (P = 0.03; prevalence ratio - PR: 2.33; CI: 1.04-5.46). An association was observed between the onset of throat clearing and the occurrence of COVID-19 infection (P = 0.001; PR: 9.13; CI: 2.47-64.42). CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that there is an association between COVID-19 infection and complaints of dysphonia and throat clearing in Brazilian singers. This study demonstrates the importance of guidance to singers infected with COVID-19 by health voice processionals.

Effect of application of fibrin glue on vocal fold healing after surgical manipulation in rabbits.

INTRODUCTION: A challenge in phonosurgery is achieving good vocal quality with minimal vocal fold fibrosis. Fibrin glue can be applied to minimize fibrosis; however, its use in the larynx is based primarily on clinical experience, particularly in extensive lesions. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of application of fibrin glue on collagen concentration at the late phase of the healing process after detaching a pedicled flap of the vocal fold cover in rabbits. METHODS: In this prospective animal study, twelve adult male rabbits underwent laryngeal microsurgery, in which an incision was made along the entire length of both vocal folds, followed by extensive mucosal detachment and section of the incision ends. Fibrin glue was applied in the left vocal fold, and the mucosa was repositioned. In the right vocal fold, the mucosa was repositioned without treatment with fibrin glue. After 3-months, the rabbits were euthanized. Histological analyses were performed, and the data collected were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: Vocal folds treated with fibrin glue presented higher collagen concentration in Masson trichrome staining and significantly higher (p < 0.05) collagen concentration in picrosirius red staining compared to control vocal folds. CONCLUSION: Treatment with fibrin glue led to greater vocal fold fibrogenesis in the present study. Nonetheless, further studies are necessary to determine the prophylactic effect of sealants in laryngeal surgeries that require extensive detachment of the vocal fold cover.

Effect of application of fibrin glue on vocal fold healing after surgical manipulation in rabbits / Efeito da aplicação de cola de fibrina na cicatrização de pregas vocais após manipulação cirúrgica em coelhos

Abstract Introduction A challenge in phonosurgery is achieving good vocal quality with minimal vocal fold fibrosis. Fibrin glue can be applied to minimize fibrosis; however, its use in the larynx is based primarily on clinical experience, particularly in extensive lesions. Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of application of fibrin glue on collagen concentration at the late phase of the healing process after detaching a pedicled flap of the vocal fold cover in rabbits. Methods In this prospective animal study, twelve adult male rabbits underwent laryngeal microsurgery, in which an incision was made along the entire length of both vocal folds, followed by extensive mucosal detachment and section of the incision ends. Fibrin glue was applied in the left vocal fold, and the mucosa was repositioned. In the right vocal fold, the mucosa was repositioned without treatment with fibrin glue. After 3-months, the rabbits were euthanized. Histological analyses were performed, and the data collected were subjected to statistical analysis. Results Vocal folds treated with fibrin glue presented higher collagen concentration in Masson trichrome staining and significantly higher (p< 0.05) collagen concentration in picrosirius red staining compared to control vocal folds. Conclusion Treatment with fibrin glue led to greater vocal fold fibrogenesis in the present study. Nonetheless, further studies are necessary to determine the prophylactic effect of sealants in laryngeal surgeries that require extensive detachment of the vocal fold cover.

Resumo Introdução Um desafio na fonocirurgia é conseguir uma boa qualidade vocal com o mínimo de fibrose das pregas vocais. A cola de fibrina pode ser aplicada para minimizar a fibrose; porém, seu uso na laringe é baseado principalmente na experiência clínica, particularmente em lesões extensas. Objetivo Avaliar o efeito da aplicação da cola de fibrina na concentração de colágeno na fase tardia do processo de cicatrização, após o descolamento do retalho pediculado da cobertura da prega vocal em coelhos. Método Neste estudo prospectivo com animais, 12 coelhos adultos machos foram submetidos à microcirurgia de laringe, na qual uma incisão foi feita em toda a extensão de ambas as pregas vocais, seguida de extenso descolamento da mucosa e secção das extremidades da incisão. A cola de fibrina foi aplicada na prega vocal esquerda e a mucosa foi reposicionada. Na prega vocal direita, a mucosa foi reposicionada sem tratamento com cola de fibrina. Após três meses, os coelhos foram sacrificados. Análises histológicas foram feitas e os dados coletados foram submetidos à análise estatística. Resultados As pregas vocais tratadas com cola de fibrina apresentaram maior concentração de colágeno na coloração tricrômica de Masson e concentração significativamente maior de colágeno (p < 0,05) na coloração com picrosirius red comparadas às pregas vocais controle. Conclusão O tratamento com cola de fibrina resultou em maior fibrogênese das pregas vocais no presente estudo. Contudo, novos estudos são necessários para determinar o efeito profilático dos selantes em cirurgias de laringe que requerem extenso descolamento da cobertura das pregas vocais.

Evaluation of the Reflux Symptom Index and the Endolaryngeal Findings Scale after Treatment in Individuals with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux.

Introduction Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a prevalent condition in outpatients visiting the otorhinolaryngological clinic, with many controversies regarding its diagnosis and follow-up. Therefore, there is a need for clinical instruments that can diagnose individuals and monitor the results of their treatment. Objective To evaluate the applicability of the scores translated and adapted to Brazilian Portuguese: Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Endolaryngeal Reflux Findings Scale (ERFS), as instruments for post-treatment follow-up of LPR. Method A total of 35 individuals with atypical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and with an objective diagnosis of LPR, confirmed by high digestive endoscopy and 24-hour esophageal pH-metry dual probe test were submitted to the RSI and ERFS questionnaires, used in the pre- and post-treatment of 90 days with a Proton Pump Inhibitor. Result The evaluation of RSI and ERFS in the pre- and post-treatment showed a reduction in the results of the two scores, with a higher drop in the RSI ( p < 0.001) than in the ERFS ( p = 0.014). Although there was an improvement in the values in 23.9% of the individuals in the ERFS, there was no change in the category ( p = 0.057), different from the RSI ( p < 0.001), where there was a 67.4% improvement in values, as well as change in category (score went from positive to negative). There was a correlation between RSI and ERFS, moderate in the pretreatment and strong in the post-treatment. Conclusion The RSI and ERFS scores, when translated and adapted for Brazilian Portuguese and applied simultaneously, can be considered a good tool for post-treatment LPR follow-up.

Temporal Association Between Respiratory Events and Reflux in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: The aim of the current study was to test the hypothesis that there is a temporal correlation between reflux episodes and respiratory events in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux and obstructive sleep apnea. METHODS: Adults with clinically diagnosed laryngopharyngeal reflux confirmed by two validated instruments (reflux symptom index ≥ 13 and reflux finding score ≥ 7) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) underwent full polysomnography with concomitant and synchronized multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH esophageal monitoring. The apnea-hypopnea and arousal indexes that occurred 15, 30, and 45 minutes before and after each reflux episode were recorded and compared to full-night apnea and hypopnea and arousal index. RESULTS: We studied 27 patients (14 males, age 51.7 ± 9.1 years, body mass index 32.4 ± 4.2 kg/m²) with laryngopharyngeal reflux (reflux symptom index 16 ± 2 and reflux finding score 12 ± 3) and OSA (apnea-hypopnea index = 32.3 ± 28.4 events/h). We evaluated 102 reflux episodes. Almost half of the reflux episodes occurred while awake (43.1%) and only five reflux episodes (4.9%) occurred during an obstructive respiratory event. The apnea and hypopnea and arousal indexes 15, 30, and 45 minutes before and after reflux episodes were lower than full-night apnea and hypopnea and arousal indexes, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients with well-established laryngopharyngeal reflux and OSA, there is no temporal association between reflux and obstructive respiratory events. Even though the data comprised a small sample size, it seems that a more complex mechanism is involved with these two highly prevalent diseases.

Volar Locking Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures: Splint versus Immediate Mobilization.

Background The goal of this study was to demonstrate that the use of a splint after performing an osteosynthesis of the distal radius with a volar locking plate is unnecessary. The main hypothesis was that postoperative flexion of the wrist was greater without a splint. Secondary hypothesis was that patients who were allowed immediate mobilization got better results in terms of pain, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), strength, extension, pronation, and supination. Case Description Our series included 72 patients, aged 59 years in average of which 59 were female patients. All patients had been operated for a volar locking plate fixation of a distal radius fracture. The first 36 patients (group I) were immobilized by a splint at 30° of extension of the wrist for 2 weeks. The following 36 patients (group II) were not immobilized. Results At 3 months, all the average variables were better in the group without splint (group I: flexion 74.83%, extension 83.13%, pronation 92.07%, supination 88.11%, pain 1.72/10, Quick DASH 21.78/100, PRWE 22.97/100, strength 62.96%; group II: flexion 85.50%, extension 83.4%, pronation 92.96%, supination 92.96%, pain 1.28/10, Quick DASH 19.57/100, PRWE 20.56/100, strength 66.34%). No complication was reported. Conclusion Overall, our results demonstrate that wearing a splint after volar locking plate fixation of a distal radius fracture is unnecessary.

Effect of Levodopa + Carbidopa on the Laryngeal Electromyographic Pattern in Parkinson Disease.

BACKGROUND: Vocal impairment is one of the main debilitating symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD). The effect of levodopa on vocal function remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the effect of levodopa on electromyographic patterns of the laryngeal muscle in patients with PD. STUDY DESIGN: This is a prospective interventional trial. METHODS: Nineteen patients with PD-diagnosed by laryngeal electromyography-were enrolled. Cricothyroid and thyroarytenoid (TA) muscle activities were measured at rest and during muscle contraction (phonation), when participants were on and off medication (12 hours after the last levodopa dose). RESULTS: Prevalence of resting hypertonia in the cricothyroid muscle was similar in the off and on states (7 of 19, P = 1.00). Eight patients off medication and four patients on medication had hypertonic TA muscle at rest (P = 0.289). No electromyographic alterations were observed during phonation for either medication states. CONCLUSION: Despite a tendency for increased rest tracings in the TA muscle when participants were on medication, no association was found between laryngeal electromyography findings and levodopa + carbidopa administration.

Relationship between the presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of laryngopharyngeal reflux and voice disorders in teachers. / Relação entre a presença de sinais videolaringoscópicos sugestivos de refluxo laringofaríngeo e distúrbio de voz em professoras.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between the presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and voice disorder (VD) in teachers. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study with convenience sample and inclusion criteria as subjects 18 years or older, be a teacher female, seek care with complaint of VD and/or LPR. The exclusion criteria included smoking and presence of respiratory changes. All subjects concluded the following instruments: Vocal Production Condition - Teacher (VPC-T), including the Screening Index for Voice Disorder (SIVD); and Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Speech samples were collected for voice perceptual assessment and all of them were submitted to otorhinolaryngology review. RESULTS: We evaluated 121 teachers, with a mean age of 43 years and 7.8 class hours per day. Only 24.0% of the teachers did not have vocal cord lesions and 42.1% had videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of LPR. In the group of teachers with presence of Signs suggestive of LPR, the most common symptoms of SIVD were dry throat, hoarseness, throat clearing; the average VHI was 17.9 points. There was no association between voice disorder and presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of LPR. The independent factors for the LPR in the multiple binary logistic regression analysis were age and VHI score (tertile: 13-20). CONCLUSION: There was no association between VD and LPR, but between age and VHI score.

Relação entre a presença de sinais videolaringoscópicos sugestivos de refluxo laringofaríngeo e distúrbio de voz em professoras / Relationship between the presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of laryngopharyngeal reflux and voice disorders in teachers

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a relação entre a presença de sinais videolaringoscópicos sugestivos de refluxo laringofaríngeo (RLF) e distúrbio de voz (DV) em professoras. Métodos Pesquisa de natureza transversal, com amostra por conveniência que teve, como critérios de inclusão, ter mais de 18 anos, ser professor do sexo feminino, procurar atendimento com queixa de DV e/ou de RLF. Os fatores de exclusão foram: ser fumante e apresentar alterações respiratórias. Todos os sujeitos preencheram os seguintes instrumentos: Condição de Produção Vocal – Professor (CPV-P), inclusive o Índice de Triagem para Distúrbio de Voz (ITDV), e o Índice de Desvantagem Vocal (IDV). Fez-se coleta de amostra de fala para avaliação perceptivo-auditiva da voz e todas foram submetidas à avaliação otorrinolaringológica. Resultados Foram avaliadas 121 professoras, com média de idade de 43 anos e de 7,8 horas-aula por dia. Somente 24% das professoras não apresentaram lesões em pregas vocais e 42,1% apresentaram sinais videolaringoscópicos sugestivos de RLF. No grupo de professoras com presença de sinais de RLF, os sintomas do ITDV mais relatados foram garganta seca, rouquidão, pigarro, e a média do IDV foi de 17,9 pontos. Não houve associação entre distúrbio de voz e presença de sinais videolaringoscópicos sugestivos de RLF. Na análise de regressão logística binária múltipla, os fatores independentes para o RLF foram idade e escore (tercil: 13-20) do IDV. Conclusão Não houve associação entre o DV e o RLF e sim entre idade e escore IDV.

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the relationship between the presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and voice disorder (VD) in teachers. Methods this is a cross-sectional study with convenience sample and inclusion criteria as subjects 18 years or older, be a teacher female, seek care with complaint of VD and/or LPR. The exclusion criteria included smoking and presence of respiratory changes. All subjects concluded the following instruments: Vocal Production Condition - Teacher (VPC-T), including the Screening Index for Voice Disorder (SIVD); and Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Speech samples were collected for voice perceptual assessment and all of them were submitted to otorhinolaryngology review. Results We evaluated 121 teachers, with a mean age of 43 years and 7.8 class hours per day. Only 24.0% of the teachers did not have vocal cord lesions and 42.1% had videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of LPR. In the group of teachers with presence of Signs suggestive of LPR, the most common symptoms of SIVD were dry throat, hoarseness, throat clearing; the average VHI was 17.9 points. There was no association between voice disorder and presence of videolaryngoscopic signs suggestive of LPR. The independent factors for the LPR in the multiple binary logistic regression analysis were age and VHI score (tertile: 13-20). Conclusion There was no association between VD and LPR, but between age and VHI score.

Effect of Spinal Manipulative Therapy on the Singing Voice.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effect of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) on the singing voice of male individuals. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized, controlled, case-crossover trial. METHODS: Twenty-nine subjects were selected among male members of the Heralds of the Gospel. This association was chosen because it is a group of persons with similar singing activities. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: (A) chiropractic SMT procedure and (B) nontherapeutic transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) procedure. Recordings of the singing voice of each participant were taken immediately before and after the procedures. After a 14-day period, procedures were switched between groups: participants who underwent SMT on the first day were subjected to TENS and vice versa. Recordings were subjected to perceptual audio and acoustic evaluations. The same recording segment of each participant was selected. Perceptual audio evaluation was performed by a specialist panel (SP). Recordings of each participant were randomly presented thus making the SP blind to intervention type and recording session (before/after intervention). Recordings compiled in a randomized order were also subjected to acoustic evaluation. RESULTS: No differences in the quality of the singing on perceptual audio evaluation were observed between TENS and SMT. CONCLUSIONS: No differences in the quality of the singing voice of asymptomatic male singers were observed on perceptual audio evaluation or acoustic evaluation after a single spinal manipulative intervention of the thoracic and cervical spine.

Laryngeal electromyography as a diagnostic tool for Parkinson's disease.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To study the laryngeal electromyography pattern in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and vocal complaints at different stages of the disease. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional cohort study. METHODS: Ninety-four adults with PD and vocal complaints at different stages of the disease (according to the Hoehn and Yahr scale) underwent laryngeal electromyography. RESULTS: Tremors were not detected on laryngeal electromyography of the cricothyroid and thyroarytenoid muscles even in patients with clinical tremor. Laryngeal electromyography hypercontractility during voice rest was the typical result observed in 91.5% of patients regardless of disease severity. Gender and age of subjects did not correlate with laryngeal electromyography results. Patients with PD presented spontaneous intrinsic laryngeal muscle activity during voice rest, regardless of disease severity. CONCLUSIONS: This study was significant because it reported on the use of laryngeal electromyography in a large number of patients with PD and vocal complaints grouped according to PD severity. The patterns observed suggest that laryngeal electromyography is a valuable diagnostic tool for PD even at early phases of the disease.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia in patients with multiple sclerosis: do the disease classification scales reflect dysphagia severity?

UNLABELLED: Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease that involves swallowing disorders. Many studies have shown an association between neurological and swallowing performance, but results have been conflicting. OBJECTIVE: To identify the frequency of dysphagia in patients with multiple sclerosis and neurological indicators that can represent the performance of swallowing. METHOD: In this study (cross-sectional) 120 Multiple Sclerosis patients underwent Functional Assessment of Swallowing by flexible nasal-pharyngo-laryngoscopy and the results were compared with the scores of the rating scales: (Clinical Evolving Forms of Disease, Functional Disability Scale for and Scale Systems Extended Functional Disability [Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale]). RESULTS: Dysphagia was found in 90% of patients. Among the clinical forms of the disease, the progressive forms (primary progressive and secondary progressive) were more frequently associated with severe dysphagia, while the relapsing-remitting form presented more often mild and moderate dysphagia. Regarding the Disability Scale for Functional Systems, cerebellar function, brainstem function and mental health were associated with dysphagia, especially in the severe form. Regarding the Extended Functional Disability Scale, higher scores were associated with severe dysphagia. CONCLUSION: Dysphagia is common in MS patients, especially in those with greater impairment of neurological functions.

Disfagia orofaríngea em pacientes com esclerose múltipla: as escalas de classificação da doença refletem a gravidade da disfagia? / Oropharyngeal dysphagia in patients with multiple sclerosis: do the disease classification scales reflect dysphagia severity?

A esclerose múltipla é uma afecção neurológica que envolve distúrbios da deglutição. Muitos estudos têm mostrado associação entre o comprometimento neurológico e o desempenho da deglutição, porém, os resultados têm sido conflitantes. OBJETIVO: Identificar a frequência de disfagia nos pacientes com esclerose múltipla e os indicadores neurológicos que podem representar o desempenho da deglutição. MÉTODO: Neste estudo (estudo transversal), 120 pacientes com esclerose múltipla foram submetidos à avaliação funcional da deglutição por fibronasofaringolaringoscopia, cujos resultados foram comparados com a pontuação das escalas de classificação (Formas Clínicas Evolutivas da Doença, Escala de Incapacidade Funcional por Sistemas e Escala Ampliada de Incapacidade Funcional [Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale]). RESULTADOS: A disfagia foi identificada em 90% dos pacientes. Dentre as formas clínicas, as formas progressivas (primária progressiva e secundária progressiva) apresentaram com maior frequência disfagia grave, enquanto a forma remitente-recorrente apresentou mais frequentemente disfagia leve e moderada. Em relação à Escala de Incapacidade Funcional por Sistemas, as funções cerebelares, do tronco encefálico e mental tiveram associação com a disfagia, especialmente na forma grave. Quanto à Escala Ampliada de Incapacidade Funcional, pontuações mais altas se associaram aos quadros graves de disfagia. CONCLUSÃO: A disfagia é frequente em pacientes com esclerose múltipla, especialmente naqueles com maior comprometimento das funções neurológicas.

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease that involves swallowing disorders. Many studies have shown an association between neurological and swallowing performance, but results have been conflicting. OBJECTIVE: To identify the frequency of dysphagia in patients with multiple sclerosis and neurological indicators that can represent the performance of swallowing. METHOD: In this study (cross-sectional) 120 Multiple Sclerosis patients underwent Functional Assessment of Swallowing by flexible nasal-pharyngo-laryngoscopy and the results were compared with the scores of the rating scales: (Clinical Evolving Forms of Disease, Functional Disability Scale for and Scale Systems Extended Functional Disability [Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale]). RESULTS: Dysphagia was found in 90% of patients. Among the clinical forms of the disease, the progressive forms (primary progressive and secondary progressive) were more frequently associated with severe dysphagia, while the relapsing-remitting form presented more often mild and moderate dysphagia. Regarding the Disability Scale for Functional Systems, cerebellar function, brainstem function and mental health were associated with dysphagia, especially in the severe form. Regarding the Extended Functional Disability Scale, higher scores were associated with severe dysphagia. CONCLUSION: Dysphagia is common in MS patients, especially in those with greater impairment of neurological functions.

Use of inhaled versus oral steroids for acute dysphonia.

UNLABELLED: Acute dysphonia is a frequent condition in clinical practice. Its treatment, especially in adults, is not well established in the literature. Steroids are the most recommended drug treatment. However, the existing studies are not enough to establish superiority among the different steroids and the best route of administration. OBJECTIVE: This prospective clinical study aimed at comparing the effect of inhaling steroids as a dry powder with the effect of oral steroids to treat acute dysphonia. METHOD: We assessed 32 adult patients, broken down into two groups of 16 patients in each one of the treatments, before and seven days after the use of the medication. The patients were submitted to videolaryngoscopy and perceptive and acoustic voice assessment. RESULT: Oral and inhalation treatment significantly reduced hyperemia and edema, and improved the muco-ondulatory movement; nonetheless, edema reduction was statistically more significant (p = 0.012) in the patients treated with the inhalation form of the drug. However, comparing the values of the auditory perceptive analysis and the acoustic measures after treatment between the groups was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: There was a significant improvement in the acute laryngitis concerning the assessments carried out in all the patients assessed, concerning the two treatments. The inhalation steroid treatment was significantly more effective in reducing the edema.

Comparação do corticoide inalatório e oral no tratamento da disfonia aguda / Use of inhaled versus oral steroids for acute dysphonia

A disfonia aguda é um quadro comum na prática clínica. Seu tratamento, principalmente em adultos, não é bem definido na literatura. O corticoide é o tratamento medicamentoso mais recomendado. Os estudos existentes, entretanto, não são suficientes para a determinação da superioridade entre diferentes corticoides e a melhor forma de administração. OBJETIVO: Este estudo clínico prospectivo teve como objetivo comparar o efeito do corticoide inalatório na forma de pó seco com o efeito do corticoide oral, no tratamento da disfonia aguda. MÉTODO: Foram avaliados 32 pacientes adultos, divididos em dois grupos de 16 pacientes para cada um dos tratamentos, antes e após sete dias do uso da medicação. Os pacientes foram submetidos à videolaringosocpia e avaliação perceptiva e acústica da voz. RESULTADOS: O tratamento inalatório e oral reduziram significativamente a hiperemia, o edema e melhorou o movimento muco-ondulatório; entretanto, a redução do edema foi estatisticamente mais significativa (p = 0,012) nos pacientes tratados com a forma inalatória. A comparação dos valores da análise perceptiva auditiva e das medidas acústicas após tratamento entre os grupos, entretanto, não apresentou significância estatística. CONCLUSÃO: Houve melhora significativa da laringite aguda nas avaliações realizadas, em todos os pacientes estudados, com os dois tratamentos. O tratamento com corticoide inalatório foi significativamente mais efetivo na redução do edema.

Acute dysphonia is a frequent condition in clinical practice. Its treatment, especially in adults, is not well established in the literature. Steroids are the most recommended drug treatment. However, the existing studies are not enough to establish superiority among the different steroids and the best route of administration. OBJECTIVE: This prospective clinical study aimed at comparing the effect of inhaling steroids as a dry powder with the effect of oral steroids to treat acute dysphonia. METHOD: We assessed 32 adult patients, broken down into two groups of 16 patients in each one of the treatments, before and seven days after the use of the medication. The patients were submitted to videolaryngoscopy and perceptive and acoustic voice assessment. RESULT: Oral and inhalation treatment significantly reduced hyperemia and edema, and improved the muco-ondulatory movement; nonetheless, edema reduction was statistically more significant (p = 0.012) in the patients treated with the inhalation form of the drug. However, comparing the values of the auditory perceptive analysis and the acoustic measures after treatment between the groups was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: There was a significant improvement in the acute laryngitis concerning the assessments carried out in all the patients assessed, concerning the two treatments. The inhalation steroid treatment was significantly more effective in reducing the edema.

Influence of sealant fibrin on the wound healing of the pigs vocal folds.

UNLABELLED: Fibrin sealants or fibrin glue are products made from human plasma proteins, which mimic the final pathway of the coagulation cascade. Its application to stimulate the healing process has been a topic of debate in the literature. The use of fibrin sealants in phonosurgery has been empirical; there have been no studies that investigate the action of fibrin sealant in Reinke's space. AIM: To evaluate the effect of fibrin glue in healing of the vocal folds of pigs after surgical manipulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective and experimental study. Six animals had both vocal folds incised. Sealant was applied in one of them; the other served as a control. After three months, the animals were sacrificed and a collagen count was carried out. RESULTS: The side on which glue was applied had an average of 27.8% against 20.4% of the side without glue. CONCLUSION: The collagen concentration in the samples where the fibrin sealant was applied was significantly higher compared to samples without glue. Thus, the presence of a fibrin sealant stimulates fibrogenesis in this tissue.

Influência do selante de fibrina na cicatrização das pregas vocais de suínos / Influence of selant fibrin on the wound healing of the pigs vocal folds

Os selantes de fibrina ou cola de fibrina são produtos originários de proteínas do plasma humano que mimetizam a via final da rede de coagulação. Sua aplicação para estimular a cicatrização tem sido motivo de discussão na literatura mundial. O uso do selante de fibrina em fonocirurgia tem sido realizado de modo empírico. Não há trabalhos que investiguem a ação do selante de fibrina no espaço de Reinke. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a interferência do uso da cola de fibrina no processo de cicatrização gerado pela manipulação cirúrgica em pregas vocais de suínos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo e experimental. Seis animais tiveram ambas as pregas vocais incisadas e em apenas uma delas foi aplicado o selante, sendo que a outra serviu de controle. Após 3 meses, os animais foram sacrificados e a contagem de colágenos realizada. RESULTADOS: O lado com aplicação de cola teve média de 27,8 por cento contra 20,4 por cento do lado sem aplicação de cola. CONCLUSÃO: A concentração de colágeno nas amostras onde o selante de fibrina foi aplicado é significativamente maior do que nas amostras onde não houve a aplicação. Portanto, a presença do selante de fibrina estimula a fibrogênese neste tecido.

Fibrin sealants or fibrin glue are products made from human plasma proteins, which mimic the final pathway of the coagulation cascade. Its application to stimulate the healing process has been a topic of debate in the literature. The use of fibrin sealants in phonosurgery has been empirical; there have been no studies that investigate the action of fibrin sealant in Reinke's space. AIM: To evaluate the effect of fibrin glue in healing of the vocal folds of pigs after surgical manipulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective and experimental study. Six animals had both vocal folds incised. Sealant was applied in one of them; the other served as a control. After three months, the animals were sacrificed and a collagen count was carried out. RESULTS: The side on which glue was applied had an average of 27.8 percent against 20.4 percent of the side without glue. CONCLUSION: The collagen concentration in the samples where the fibrin sealant was applied was significantly higher compared to samples without glue. Thus, the presence of a fibrin sealant stimulates fibrogenesis in this tissue.

Comparação de hábitos de bem estar vocal entre cantores líricos e populares / A comparison between vocal habits of lyric and popular singers

OBJETIVO: comparar hábitos de bem estar vocal entre cantores líricos e populares. MÉTODOS: foi realizado um trabalho exploratório descritivo, com a participação de 30 cantores líricos e 30 populares, estudantes da Universidade Livre de Música. Todos responderam um questionário com 13 questões objetivas sobre hábitos vocais e utilização profissional da voz. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados estatisticamente RESULTADOS: cantores líricos e populares têm hábitos semelhantes de alimentação, tabagismo, etilismo e uso de drogas recreacionais. Cantores populares têm menos horas de sono/repouso ao dia, sendo esta uma diferença estatisticamente significante. Este grupo também se diferenciou dos cantores líricos por terem, em sua maioria, outro trabalho com a utilização profissional da voz falada. Também foi estatisticamente significante a maior carga horária no uso da voz cantada em líricos, bem como o maior uso de recursos considerados mitos para melhorar a voz. Cantores populares conhecem menos o trabalho fonoaudiológico junto aos profissionais da voz. Os cantores líricos aquecem a voz com maior frequência em relação aos populares, embora este segundo grupo, tenha demonstrado que este hábito tem sido adquirido. Tanto cantores líricos quanto populares não desaquecem a voz sistematicamente, depois da atividade profissional. CONCLUSÃO: Cantores líricos e populares com formação musical específica têm, em geral, hábitos de bem estar vocal semelhantes e diferenciam-se principalmente em relação à carga horária de trabalho semanal, à utilização de mitos na tentativa de melhorar a voz, ao conhecimento sobre o trabalho fonoaudiológico e à prática de aquecimento e desaquecimento vocal.

PURPOSE: to compare vocal welfare habits of lyric and popular singers. METHODS: it is a descriptive exploratory work, with the participation of 30 lyrical singers and 30 popular singers. All answered a questionnaire with 13 objective questions about vocal habits and use of professional voice. Data were statistically analyzed RESULTS: popular singers have similar feeding habits as lyrical singers: smoking, alcohol and recreational drug use. Popular singers have fewer hours of sleep/rest along the day, which is a statistically significant difference. This group also differed from the lyrical singers because they have, in most cases, another work, with professional use of spoken voice. there was also a statistically significant increased workload on the use of singing voice in lyric singers, as well as the increased use of resources considering myths to improve the voice. Popular singers know less about the work of speech language pathologists with voice professionals. Lyrical singers warm up the voice with greater frequency over the popular singers, although this second group has demonstrated that this habit has been acquired. Both groups do not systematically slow down their voice, after the professional activity. CONCLUSION: popular and lyrical singers have some similar habits on the vocal health and they are different mainly due to the weekly to singing workload, using myths to improve voice, knowledge about the speech language pathologist work and voice warming-up practice.