Peak nasal inspiratory flow in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease: a case-control study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Sickle cell disease is the most frequent of the hereditary hemoglobinopathies and it presents multisystemic effects. A manifestation that is commonly found in sickle cell disease is upper airway obstruction, particularly adenotonsillar hypertrophy. This study aims to evaluate the peak nasal inspiratory flow measurements of children and adolescents with sickle cell disease. METHODS: This is a case-control study on children aged between 8 and 15 years who were diagnosed with sickle cell disease. Peak nasal inspiratory flow measurements were obtained from patients. RESULTS: A total of 279 patients were enrolled in this study, with 93 in the case group and 186 in the control group. The case group had an 82.83% chance of having lower peak nasal inspiratory flow values than the control group. In the case group, 75% of the peak nasal inspiratory flow values were in the lower standards, whereas in the control group, only 25% were in the lower standards. CONCLUSION: This study showed a high prevalence of reduced peak nasal inspiratory flow values in children with sickle cell disease and could certainly be incorporated into the day-to-day clinical evaluation of patients as a screening instrument.

Patência nasal em crianças respiradoras orais / Nasal patency in mouth breathing children

RESUMO Vários estudos mostram a importância da avaliação quantitativa na patência nasal e do estado funcional das vias aéreas superiores para fornecer informações clínicas e diagnósticas em indivíduos respiradores orais, as quais são de grande interesse para a fonoaudiologia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da irrigação de solução salina nasal nas vias aéreas superiores através da aeração nasal e rinomanometria anterior ativa em crianças respiradoras orais. Estudo de série de oito casos, realizado em crianças com idades entre 7 e 10 anos, com diagnóstico clínico otorrinolaringológico de respiração oral. O estudo consistiu em três etapas: avaliação inicial; intervenção e avaliação final. Foram aplicados os questionários do Índice de Identificação dos Sinais e Sintomas da Respiração Oral e qualidade de vida específica para doenças em pacientes pediátricos com queixas sinonasais. Realizaram-se as avaliações da aeração nasal e o exame da rinomanometria anterior ativa. A intervenção foi realizada por meio da irrigação de solução salina nasal com 10 ml. Em seguida, os pacientes foram reavaliados pela avaliação da aeração nasal e rinomanometria, para comparar os resultados. Em relação à avaliação da aeração nasal e rinomanometria, das 16 medidas comparativas entre pré e pós-irrigação nasal, constataram-se mudanças significativas na aeração nasal e na resistência nasal. A irrigação nasal resultou em melhora nas medidas da aeração nasal, enquanto para o fluxo nasal da rinomanometria, as medidas permaneceram inalteradas entre pré e pós-irrigação nasal.

ABSTRACT Several studies have shown the importance of quantitative assessment in nasal patency and functional status of the upper airways to provide clinical and diagnostic information in oral breather individuals, which are of great interest to speech therapy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of nasal saline solution irrigation on the upper airways through nasal aeration and active anterior rhinomanometry in oral breathing children. This was an eight case series study, carried out in children aged 7 to 10 years with an otorhinolaryngological clinical diagnosis of mouth breathing. The study consisted of three stages: (I) initial evaluation; (II) intervention; and (III) final evaluation. The questionnaires of the Index for the Identification of Oral Breathing Signs and Symptoms and disease-specific quality of life in pediatric patients with sinonasal complaints were applied, nasal aeration assessments and the anterior active rhinomanometry exam were carried out. The intervention was performed by irrigating nasal saline solution with 10ml. Afterwards, they were re-evaluated by nasal aeration evaluation and rhinomanometry to compare the results. Regarding nasal aeration and rhinomanometry evaluation, from the 16 comparative measurements between pre and post nasal irrigation, we obtained significant changes in nasal aeration and nasal resistance. Nasal irrigation resulted in improvement in nasal aeration measurements while nasal flow measurements from rhinomanometry remained unchanged considering pre and post nasal irrigation.

Effect of Orthognathic Surgery on Breathing in Patients with Cleft lip and Palate: 20-Year Experience at a Tertiary Hospital in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the effect of orthognathic surgery (OS) on nasal dimensions and its correlation with respiratory symptoms in patients operated on over the past 20 years. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Tertiary level craniofacial hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 535 patients with CLP previously repaired, without syndromes, age over 18, who performed OS between 2000 and 2019 and rhinomanometric evaluation pre and post OS. INTERVENTIONS: Maxillary advancement isolated and combined with turbinectomy and/or mandibular osteotomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Minimum nasal cross-sectional area (CSA) assessed by posterior (PR) and anterior rhinomanometry (AR), nasopharyngeal cross-sectional area (NCSA) verified by modified AR, and self-perceived respiratory symptoms through a questionnaire. RESULTS: After OS, there was a significant increase in CSA assessed by PR (p < .001) and AR (p < .001), while there was no significant difference in NCSA (p = 0.319). Regarding respiratory symptoms after OS, 26.3% showed improvement in nasal obstruction, 28.5% in oronasal breathing, 18.5% in snoring, and 5.2% in respiratory obstruction during sleep. However, a weak correlation between increased CSA and improvement of symptoms was observed. In the first decade, lower values of CSA (p < .001) and NCSA (p < .001) were observed compared to the second decade. Both periods showed a significant increase in CSA (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Nasal dimensions and breathing symptoms were improved by OS when combined with turbinectomy. Comparing the results of patients operated on between two different decades, patients had more favorable conditions for breathing in the most recent decade of care. However, this was not statistically correlated with the improvement in patient symptoms in this study.

Allergic rhinitis improvement after septorhinoplasty in a sample of allergic rhinitis patients with septal deviation: a quasi-experimental study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects almost 30% of the adult population. OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare the evolution of symptoms in patients diagnosed with AR and septal deviation prior to and following septoplasty (STP). DESIGN AND SETTING: Quasi-experimental study developed in A Coruña University Hospital. METHODS: Patients aged 18-65 years who had been diagnosed with AR and septal deviation were recruited. Obstruction airflow was evaluated before and after surgery, by means of anterior rhinomanometry (RNM). Severity symptoms and quality of life were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the ESPRINT questionnaire, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 50 subjects underwent STP and 42 were included in this study. Their mean age at the time of surgery was 34.16 ± 9.74 years (range 18-64). Significant reductions in mean VAS and ESPRINT were observed after surgery (P < 0.01). These outcomes were considered to represent an overall improvement in quality of life. The RNM results also improved significantly, from mean values of 478.07 ± 165.4 cm3/s before STP to 826.4 ± 175.5 cm3/s afterwards (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The negative correlations of VAS and ESPRINT with RNM, from before and to after STP, demonstrate the efficacy of scales and questionnaires as objective methods for determining obstruction in the absence of rhinomanometry. Patients with allergic rhinitis and septal deviation showed improvements in obstruction severity and medication use after STP.

Repercussão da adenotonsilectomia sobre o estado nutricional em crianças respiradoras orais / Repercussion of adenotonsillectomy on the nutritional status of mouth breathing children

Introdução: a hiperplasia adenotonsilar (HAT) é uma das causas mais comuns da Síndrome do Respirador Oral (SRO) devido à obstrução de via aérea superior em crianças e adolescentes. Tal afecção pode causar alterações ortodônticas, miofuncionais orofaciais, posturais, cardiopulmonares, antropométricas e polissonográficas. O diagnóstico precoce e indicação de Adenotonsilectomia (A&T) é essencial para reversão dessas consequências deletérias da SRO e restauração do bem estar biopsicossocial da criança.Objetivo: avaliar o estado nutricional, patência nasal, distúrbios do sono e fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina tipo 1 (IGF-1) em crianças de dois a doze anos de idade com SRO devido HAT grave e comparar com a reavaliação após seis meses de pós-cirúrgico das crianças operadas e com as demais que permanecem com obstrução da via aérea e aguardam a cirurgia na fila de espera do Sistema Único de Saúde. Métodos: trinta pacientes com SRO por HAT grave e indicação de A&T foram submetidos à avaliação antropométrica, polissonográfica, dosagem do IGF-1, rinomanométrica, teste alérgico cutâneo, questionário de padrão alimentar e prática de atividade física antes da A&T. Dez pacientes repetiram essa avaliação seis meses após o procedimento cirúrgico (grupo intervenção). Vinte pacientes aguardam a cirurgia na fila de espera do SUS e tiveram seus dados antropométricos e de IGF-1 reavaliados após seis meses com obstrução da via aérea (grupo controle). Resultados: trinta crianças realizaram a fase pré-operatória do estudo. A idade média foi de 5,6 anos (±2,17). Dezessete (56,7%) eram do sexo masculino e treze (43,3%) do sexo feminino. O teste cutâneo foi positivo em dezesseis indivíduos (53,3%) As médias dos escores Z de estatura por idade foi de -0,95 (±1,09); peso por idade de 0,17 (±1,42); índice de massa corporal (IMC) por idade de 0,31 (±1,36). A média do fluxo nasal inspiratório total (FNIT) foi de 444,63 ml/s (±161,02) e da patência nasal de 72,9% (±24,76). A média do índice de Apneia e Hipopneia (IAH) do sono foi de 4,95 ev/h (±4,07); da saturação mínima de oxihemoglobina no sono (Nadir de O2) de 78,93% (±6,00); da percentagem de sono com saturação menor que 90% (T90) de 4,16% (±5,48); da porcentagem do sono com ondas lentas (sono N3) de 37,62% (±9,61). A média do escore Z de IGF-1 foi de 0,72 (±1,30). O grupo intervenção e grupo controle não apresentaram alterações dos dados antropométricos com significância estatística. Houve diminuição do IGF-1 após a cirurgia sendo a média do escore Z de IGF-1 pré-operatório de 1,33 (±1,74) e pós-cirúrgico de -0,07 (±0,85); p=0,03. No grupo controle a variação do IGF-1 não foi significativa. O grupo intervenção não apresentou alteração com significância estatística do FNIT e da patência nasal. Nas dez crianças operadas foi constatada uma melhora da média do IAH de 5,25 ev/h (±4,29) para 1,99 ev/h (±1,16) e do T90 de 6,27% (±7,46) para 0,64% (±0,55) com p<0,05. Já o sono N3 e o Nadir de O2 não apresentaram alterações significativas. Não houve mudança qualitativa no padrão alimentar e na prática de atividade física nos dois períodos avaliados na vigência da pandemia de COVID19. Conclusão: Após A&T houve diminuição do IGF-1; p=0,03, melhora do IAH; p=0,03 e do T90; p=0,04. A cirurgia não modificou o estado nutricional com significância estatística nas dez crianças após 6 meses de pós-operatório. No pós-cirúrgico, não houve diferença estatística do FNIT e da patência nasal, assim como nessa amostra também não ocorreram alterações significativas do sono N3 e do Nadir de O2. O padrão alimentar e a prática de atividade física foram semelhantes qualitativamente no pré e no pós-operatório. Vinte crianças no grupo controle não tiveram alterações significativas dos dados antropométricos e do IGF-1 com seis meses de espera pela cirurgia e permanência da obstrução da via aérea. Não houve diferença estatística dos dados antropométricos e do IGF-1 entre o grupo controle e o grupo intervenção.

Introduction: adenotonsillar hyperplasia (ATH) is one of the most common causes of Mouth Breathing Syndrome (MBS) due to upper airway obstruction in children and adolescents. This condition can cause orthodontic, orofacial myofunctional, postural, cardiopulmonary, anthropometric and polysomnographic changes. Early diagnosis and indication of Adenotonsillectomy (T&A) is essential to revert these deleterious consequences of MBS and restore the child's biopsychosocial well-being. Objective: to evaluate the nutritional status, nasal patency, sleep disorders and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in children aged two to twelve years old with MBS due to severe ATH and compare with reassessment after six months post-surgical care of operated children and others who remain with airway obstruction and are waiting for surgery on the Unified Health System (UHS) waiting list. Methods: Thirty patients with MBS due to severe ATH and indication for T&A were submitted to anthropometric, polysomnographic, IGF-1 dosage, rhinomanometric, allergic skin test, dietary pattern questionnaire and physical activity practice before T&A. Ten patients repeated this evaluation six months after the surgical procedure (intervention group). Twenty patients were waiting for surgery on the UHS waiting list and had their anthropometric and IGF-1 data reassessed after six months with airway obstruction (control group). Results: Thirty children underwent the preoperative phase of the study. The mean age was 5.6 years (±2.17). Seventeen (56.7%) were male and thirteen (43.3%) were female. The skin test was positive in sixteen individuals (53.3%) The average Z-scores for height for age were -0.95 (±1.09); weight for age 0.17 (±1.42); body mass index (BMI) for age of 0.31 (±1.36). The mean total inspiratory nasal flow (TINF) was 444.63 ml/s (±161.02) and nasal patency was 72.9% (±24.76). The average sleep apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) was 4.95 ev/h (±4.07); minimum oxyhemoglobin saturation during sleep (O2 Nadir) of 78.93% (±6.00); percentage of sleep with saturation lower than 90% (T90) of 4.16% (±5.48); percentage of sleep with slow waves (N3) of 37.62% (±9.61). The mean IGF-1 Z-score was 0.72 (±1.30). The intervention group and control group did not show statistically significant changes in anthropometric data. There was a decrease in IGF-1 after surgery, with a mean preoperative IGF-1 Z-score of 1.33 (±1.74) and postoperative value of -0.07 (±0.85); p=0.03. In the control group, the IGF-1 variation was not significant. The intervention group did not show statistically significant changes in TINF and nasal patency. In the ten operated children, an improvement in the mean AHI from 5.25 ev/h (±4.29) to 1.99 ev/h (±1.16) and T90 of 6.27% (±7. 46) to 0.64% (±0.55) with p<0.05. On the other hand, N3 sleep and O2 Nadir showed no significant changes. There was no qualitative change in dietary patterns and physical activity in the two periods evaluated during the COVID19 pandemic. Conclusion: After T&A there was a decrease in IGF-1; p=0.03, AHI improvement; p=0.03 and T90 too; p=0.04. The surgery did not change the nutritional status with statistical significance in the ten children after 6 months postoperatively. Post-surgery, there was no statistical difference in TINF and nasal patency, as well as in this sample there were no significant changes in N3 sleep and O2 Nadir either. The dietary pattern and the practice of physical activity were qualitatively similar before and after the operation. Twenty children in the control group did not have significant alterations in anthropometric data and IGF-1 after six months of waiting for the surgery and the remaining airway obstruction. There was no statistical difference in anthropometric and IGF-1 data between the control and intervention groups.

Mímica facial durante a fala em fissura labiopalatina: uma proposta de classificação / Facial grimace during speech in cleft lip and palate: a proposal for classification

RESUMO Objetivo Investigar a efetividade de proposta de classificação da mímica facial (MF), e sua correlação com avaliação objetiva do fechamento velofaríngeo (FVF). Método Vinte indivíduos com fissura labiopalatina reparada foram submetidos à medida da área velofaríngea por meio da rinomanometria e à gravação de amostra de fala. A MF foi classificada em dois momentos, por três fonoaudiólogas. Inicialmente as avaliadoras classificaram a MF, utilizando critérios próprios, em: 1=MF ausente; 2=leve; 3=moderada; 4=grave. Posteriormente, foram submetidas a um treinamento com o estabelecimento dos seguintes critérios de classificação: 1=MF normal; 2=movimento somente de nariz ou terço superior da face; 3=movimento acentuado de nariz ou terço superior da face; 4=movimento de nariz e terço superior da face e, classificaram a MF utilizando os critérios estabelecidos. Concordância intra e interavaliadores foram calculadas pelo coeficiente Kappa ponderado. A correlação entre os resultados das etapas com o FVF foi feita pelo coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados Na primeira etapa, a concordância interavaliadores variou de regular a substancial e na segunda, de substancial a quase perfeita. A concordância intra-avaliadores variou de moderada a quase perfeita na primeira etapa, e de moderada a substancial, na segunda etapa. A correlação entre a MF e área velofaríngea na primeira e na segunda etapa foi positiva e significativa. Conclusão A proposta de julgamento da MF mostrou-se efetiva na determinação do sintoma e confiável no diagnóstico da gravidade da disfunção velofaríngea. A correlação significativa entre os métodos perceptivo e instrumental sugere que a MF pode ser utilizada na previsão do FVF.

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the effectiveness of a proposal for classification of facial grimace (FG) and its correlation with objective evaluation of velopharyngeal closure (VPC). Methods Twenty individuals with repaired cleft lip and palate underwent velopharyngeal area measurement by means of rhinomanometry and speech sample recording. The FG was rated in two steps, by three speech-language pathologists. First the evaluators rated the FG using their own criteria as: 1= absent FG; 2=mild; 3=moderate; 4=severe. Subsequently, they were submitted to a training session that established the following FG rating criteria: 1=absent FG; 2=movement only of the nose or upper third of the face; 3=strong movement of the nose or upper third of the face; 4=movement of the nose and upper third of the face. The evaluators rated the FG using the established criteria. Intra- and inter-rater agreement were calculated using weighted Kappa coefficient. Correlation between the two stage ratings with the VPC was calculated by Spearman's correlation coefficient. Results In the first stage inter-rater agreement ranged from fair to substantial; in the second stage, from substantial to almost perfect. Intra-rater agreement ranged from moderate to almost perfect in the first stage, and from moderate to substantial in the second stage. The correlation between FG and velopharyngeal area was positive and significant in both stages. Conclusion The proposed FG judgement proved to be effective in determining the symptom and reliable in diagnosing the severity of velopharyngeal dysfunction. The significant correlation between perceptual and instrumental methods suggests that FG can be used in predicting VPC.

Análisis facial en la rinoseptoplastia funcional. Estudio descriptivo / Facial analysis in functional rhinoseptoplasty. Descriptive study

Objetivo: analizar las características del perfil facial como herramienta fundamental en la rinoseptoplastia funcional de los pacientes que consultan en la Unidad de Rinología del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Militar Dr. Carlos Arvelo, entre enero y abril de 2016. El rostro está formado por estructuras anatómicas que le proporcionan características determinadas. La nariz ocupa un lugar central, el diagnóstico preciso de las alteraciones nasales es el paso más importante y complejo de una rinoseptoplastia funcional. El propósito de la restauración quirúrgica de la nariz es asegurar el buen funcionamiento y la armonía en la forma, por lo que los ángulos del perfil facial son relevantes en la valoración prequirúrgica. Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo ­ observacional de corte transversal. La muestra estuvo conformada por 25 pacientes que accedieron voluntariamente a realizar estudio fotográfico y rinomanometría. Resultados: predominio del sexo femenino con 72% de la muestra total. El grupo etario preponderante estuvo conformado en un 92% por adultos jóvenes. En cuanto a los ángulos nasolabial y nasofacial, presentaron alteraciones el 56% y el 24% respectivamente. Se practicó rinomanometría a la población evidenciando 100% alteración (factor valvular), de los cuales un 80% presentaron modificación de los ángulos nasofacial y nasolabial. Conclusiones: la correlación entre la variación de los ángulos nasofacial y nasolabial con la permeabilidad nasal, establece que el análisis facial puede considerarse como herramienta fundamental para la determinación de correcciones estéticas y funcionales en la rinoseptoplastia funcional..Au

Objective: to analyze the characteristics of the facial profile as a fundamental tool in functional rhinoseptoplasty of patients who consult in the Rhinology Unit of the Otolaryngology Service of the Hospital Militar Dr. Carlos Arvelo, between January and April 2016. The face is made up of structures anatomical that provide certain characteristics. The nose occupies a central place, the precise diagnosis of nasal alterations is the most important and complex step of a functional rhinoseptoplasty. The purpose of the surgical restoration of the nose is to ensure proper function and harmony in shape, so the angles of the facial profile are relevant in the presurgical assessment. Materials and methods: descriptive-observational cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 25 patients who voluntarily agreed to carry out a photographic study and rhinomanometry.Results: prevalence of the female sex with 72% of the total sample. The preponderant age group was made up of 92% young adults. Regarding the nasolabial and nasofacial angles, 56% and 24% presented alterations respectively. Rhinomanometry was performed on the population showing 100% alteration (valvular factor), of which 80% presented modification of the nasofacial and nasolabial angles. Conclusions: the correlation between the variation of the nasofacial and nasolabial angles with nasal patency establishes that facial analysis can be considered as a fundamental tool for determining aesthetic and functional corrections in functional rhinoseptoplasty..Au

Pulmonary arterial pressure and nasal obstruction in mouth-breathing children: Similarities between adenotonsillar hypertrophy and allergic rhinitis.

BACKGROUND: Upper airway obstruction may cause pulmonary hypertension in childhood. In this study we aimed to identify a possible correlation of systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (SPAP), using Doppler echocardiography, with nasal patency (NP), as measured by rhinomanometry, in mouth-breathing (MB) children with allergic rhinitis (AR) and adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study we evaluated 183 patients, from 2 to 12 years of age, at an MB referral clinic in Brazil, from December 2013 to 2017. We allocated patients to 4 etiology groups: group 1, 60 MBs with ATH; group 2, 47 MBs with AR; group 3, 43 MBs with both ATH and AR; and group 4, 33 nasal breathing control subjects. The ratio of total nasal inspiratory flow (assessed by active anterior rhinomanometry) and expected inspiratory flow adjusted for height determined the percent NP (%NP). RESULTS: The median %NP was higher in controls than in the MB groups (controls, 114% [79-147%]; ATH: 65% [5-116%]; AR: 57% [23-144%]; ATH and AR: 64% [3-120%]; p < 0.001). Median SPAP was higher in the MB groups than in controls (SPAP: ATH, 26.0 [20.0-35.0] mmHg; AR, 26.0 [22.0-32.0] mmHg; ATH and AR, 26.30 [20.0-34.0] mmHg; control, 22.0 [16.0-30.0] mmHg; p < 0.001). SPAP showed a negative association with %NP (Spearman's rho = -0.24; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Reduced nasal airflow in MB children showed a correlation with higher levels of systolic pulmonary arterial pressure. The AR and ATH groups were similar in nasal obstruction severity and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure level distribution.

Rhinomanometry Versus Computational Fluid Dynamics: Correlated, but Different Techniques.

BACKGROUND: Past studies reported a low correlation between rhinomanometry and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), but the source of the discrepancy was unclear. Low correlation or lack of correlation has also been reported between subjective and objective measures of nasal patency. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates (1) the correlation and agreement between nasal resistance derived from CFD (RCFD) and rhinomanometry (RRMN), and (2) the correlation between objective and subjective measures of nasal patency. METHODS: Twenty-five patients with nasal obstruction underwent anterior rhinomanometry before and after mucosal decongestion with oxymetazoline. Subjective nasal patency was assessed with a 0-10 visual analog scale (VAS). CFD simulations were performed based on computed tomography scans obtained after mucosal decongestion. To validate the CFD methods, nasal resistance was measured in vitro (REXPERIMENT) by performing pressure-flow experiments in anatomically accurate plastic nasal replicas from 6 individuals. RESULTS: Mucosal decongestion was associated with a reduction in bilateral nasal resistance (0.34 ± 0.23 Pa.s/ml to 0.19 ± 0.24 Pa.s/ml, p = 0.003) and improved sensation of nasal airflow (bilateral VAS decreased from 5.2 ± 1.9 to 2.6 ± 1.9, p < 0.001). A statistically significant correlation was found between VAS in the most obstructed cavity and unilateral airflow before and after mucosal decongestion (r = -0.42, p = 0.003). Excellent correlation was found between RCFD and REXPERIMENT (r = 0.96, p < 0.001) with good agreement between the numerical and in vitro values (RCFD/REXPERIMENT = 0.93 ± 0.08). A weak correlation was found between RCFD and RRMN (r = 0.41, p = 0.003) with CFD underpredicting nasal resistance derived from rhinomanometry (RCFD/RRMN = 0.65 ± 0.63). A stronger correlation was found when unilateral airflow at a pressure drop of 75 Pa was used to compare CFD with rhinomanometry (r = 0.76, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: CFD and rhinomanometry are moderately correlated, but CFD underpredicts nasal resistance measured in vivo due in part to the assumption of rigid nasal walls. Our results confirm previous reports that subjective nasal patency correlates better with unilateral than with bilateral measurements and in the context of an intervention.

Effect of LTRA in L-ASA Challenge for Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease Diagnosis.

BACKGROUND: Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) consists of asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps, and hypersensitivity to aspirin and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Nasal Lysine Aspirin Challenge is an effective tool for the diagnosis of hypersensitivity to aspirin and/or NSAIDs in patients with AERD. However, there is no unified international consensus version to perform nasal provocation tests (NPTs). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA), montelukast, on the lysine-acetylsalicylate (L-ASA) nasal challenge. METHODS: We included 86 patients divided into 3 samples: group A (AERD without LTRA), group B (AERD with LTRA), and the control group (NSAID-tolerant asthmatics). NPT with L-ASA was performed with 25 mg of L-ASA every 30 minutes 4 times followed by rhinomanometry and spirometric measurements and evaluation of symptoms using a novel clinical scale. RESULTS: In group A, 94.5% of patients (35 of 37) developed a positive response to NPT (drop >40% in total nasal flow), whereas only 46% of group B subjects (13 of 28) showed a positive response to the nasal challenge (P < .001). Control subjects did not show any response to the L-ASA challenge. A novel clinical score demonstrated accuracy in classifying the hypersensitivity to aspirin and/or NSAIDs when patients avoid LTRA (33 of 37). CONCLUSION: Patients with AERD without LTRA showed a greater positive response to the L-ASA challenge than those taking this drug; therefore, LTRA treatment should be discontinued before the challenge for optimal diagnostic accuracy.

Effects of oral isotretinoin therapy on the nasal cavities / Efeitos nasais da terapia com isotretinoína oral

Abstract Introduction Isotretinoin (13 cis-retinoic acid) is the most effective treatment for acne vulgaris and is the only treatment option that can provide either remission or a permanent cure. Objective The aim of this study was to use both subjective and objective methods to assess the nasal complaints of patients with severe acne who received oral isotretinoin therapy. Methods Fifty-four subjects were enrolled in the study. All the subjects were assessed with subjective (NOSE and VAS questionnaires) and objective (rhinomanometry and saccharine) tests to determine the severity of their nasal complaints. Results The mean severity scores (min: 0; max: 100) for nasal dryness/crusting and epistaxis were 0.47 ± 1.48 (0-5); 0.35 ± 1.30 (0-5) at admission, 3.57 ± 4.45 (0-10); 2.26 ± 4.71 (0-20) at the first month, and 4.28 ± 6 (0-20); 2.26 ± 4.71 (0-20) at the third month of the treatment respectively. Total nasal resistance of 0.195 ± 0.079 (0.12-0.56) Pa/cm3/s at admission, 0.21 ± 0.084 (0.12-0.54) Pa/cm3/s at the first month, and 0.216 ± 0.081 (0.14-0.54) Pa/cm3/s at the third month. Conclusion Oral isotretinoin therapy can cause the complaint of nasal obstruction. In addition, nasal complaints, such as dryness/crusting and epistaxis, significantly increase in patients during the therapy schedule.

Resumo Introdução A isotretinoína (ácido-13 cis-retinóico) é o tratamento por via oral mais eficaz para acne vulgar e é a única opção de tratamento que pode produzir remissão ou cura permanente. Objetivo Usar métodos subjetivos e objetivos para avaliar as queixas nasais de pacientes com acne grave que receberam terapia com isotretinoína oral. Método Foram incluídos no estudo 54 indivíduos. Todos os indivíduos foram avaliados por meio de testes subjetivos (questionários NOSE e escala EVA) e objetivos (rinomanometria e teste de sacarina) para determinar a gravidade de suas queixas nasais. Resultados Os escores médios de gravidade (min: 0; max: 100) para ressecamento/crostas e epistaxe nasal foram de 0,47 ± 1,48 (0-5); 0,35 ± 1,30 (0-5) no início, 3,57 ± 4,45 (0-10); 2,26 ± 4,71 (0-20) no primeiro mês e 4,28 ± 6 (0-20); 2,26 ± 4,71 (0-20) no terceiro mês do tratamento, respectivamente. A resistência nasal total foi de 0,195 ± 0,079 (0,12 a 0,56) Pa/cm3/s no início, 0,21 ± 0,084 (0,12 a 0,54) Pa/cm3/s no primeiro mês e 0,216 ± 0,081 (0,14 a 0,54) Pa/cm3/s no terceiro mês. Conclusão A terapia com isotretinoína por via oral pode resultar em queixa de obstrução nasal. Além disso, queixas nasais, tais como ressecamento/formação de crostas e epistaxe, aumentam significativamente nos pacientes durante o esquema terapêutico.

Effects of oral isotretinoin therapy on the nasal cavities.

INTRODUCTION: Isotretinoin (13 cis-retinoic acid) is the most effective treatment for acne vulgaris and is the only treatment option that can provide either remission or a permanent cure. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to use both subjective and objective methods to assess the nasal complaints of patients with severe acne who received oral isotretinoin therapy. METHODS: Fifty-four subjects were enrolled in the study. All the subjects were assessed with subjective (NOSE and VAS questionnaires) and objective (rhinomanometry and saccharine) tests to determine the severity of their nasal complaints. RESULTS: The mean severity scores (min: 0; max: 100) for nasal dryness/crusting and epistaxis were 0.47±1.48 (0-5); 0.35±1.30 (0-5) at admission, 3.57±4.45 (0-10); 2.26±4.71 (0-20) at the first month, and 4.28±6 (0-20); 2.26±4.71 (0-20) at the third month of the treatment respectively. Total nasal resistance of 0.195±0.079 (0.12-0.56)Pa/cm3/s at admission, 0.21±0.084 (0.12-0.54)Pa/cm3/s at the first month, and 0.216±0.081 (0.14-0.54)Pa/cm3/s at the third month. CONCLUSION: Oral isotretinoin therapy can cause the complaint of nasal obstruction. In addition, nasal complaints, such as dryness/crusting and epistaxis, significantly increase in patients during the therapy schedule.

Evaluation of pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow / Avaliação do fluxo aéreo nasal pré e pós-piriformeplastia

Abstract Introduction: Nasal obstruction is a frequent complaint in otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinics, and nasal valve incompetence is the cause in most cases. Scientific publications describing surgical techniques on the upper and lower lateral cartilages to improve the nasal valve are also quite frequent. Relatively few authors currently describe surgical procedures in the piriform aperture for nasal valve augmentation. We describe the surgical technique called pyriform plasty and evaluate its effectiveness subjectively through the NOSE questionnaire and objectively through the rhinomanometry evaluation. Objective: To compare pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow variations using rhinomanometry and the NOSE questionnaire. Methods: Eight patients submitted to pyriform surgery were studied. These patients were screened in the otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic among those who complained of nasal obstruction, and who had a positive response to Cottle maneuver. They answered the NOSE questionnaire and were submitted to preoperative rhinomanometry. After 90 days, they were reassessed through the NOSE questionnaire and the postoperative rhinomanometry. The results of these two parameters were compared pre- and postoperatively. Results: Regarding the subjective measure, the NOSE questionnaire, seven patients reported improvement, of which two reported marked improvement, and one patient reported an unchanged obstructive condition. Regarding the rhinomanometry assessment, of 96 comparative measurements between the preoperative and postoperative periods, we obtained 68 measurements with an increase in nasal airflow in the postoperative period, 26 negative results, and two cases that remained unaltered between the preoperative and postoperative periods. Conclusion: When analyzing the results obtained in this study, we can conclude that the piriform plasty surgical procedure resulted in nasal airflow improvement in most of the obtained measurements.

Resumo Introdução: A obstrução nasal é queixa frequente nos ambulatórios de otorrinolaringologia, e a incompetência da válvula nasal é responsável em grande parte dos casos. São bastante frequente também as publicações de trabalhos científicos descrevendo técnicas cirúrgicas sobre as cartilagens laterais superiores e inferiores para melhorar a válvula nasal. Relativamente poucos autores descrevem atualmente procedimentos cirúrgicos na abertura piriforme para incremento da válvula nasal. Descrevemos a técnica cirúrgica chamada piriformeplastia e avaliamos a sua eficácia de forma subjetiva através do questionário NOSE e de forma objetiva através do exame rinomanometria. Objetivo: Comparar as variações do fluxo aéreo nasal pré e pós-piriformeplastia através da rinomanometria e do questionário NOSE. Método: Foram estudados 8 pacientes submetidos à piriformeplastia. Estes pacientes foram triados no ambulatório de otorrinolaringologia, pacientes estes que se queixavam de obstrução nasal, e que apresentavam resposta positiva a manobra de Cottle. Responderam ao questionário NOSE e foram submetidos a rinomanometria no pré-operatório. Após 90 dias foram reavaliados pelo questionário NOSE e pela rinomanometria pós-operatória. Os resultados desses dois parâmetros foram comparados pré e pós-operatoriamente. Resultados: Em relação a medida subjetiva, questionário NOSE, sete pacientes referiram melhora, sendo que dois deles referiram melhora acentuada, e um paciente referiu quadro obstrutivo inalterado. Em relação ao exame rinomanometria, de 96 medidas comparativas entre o pré e o pós-operatório, obtivemos 68 medidas com incremento ao fluxo aéreo nasal no pós-operatório, 26 resultados negativos, e dois casos inalterados entre pré e pós-operatório. Conclusão: O procedimento cirúrgico piriformeplastia conferiu melhoria do fluxo aéreo nasal na maioria das medidas obtidas.

Functional results in airflow improvement using a "flip-flap" alar technique: our experience / Resultados funcionais na melhora do fluxo de ar utilizando uma técnica alar em flip-flap: nossa experiência

Abstract Introduction Pinched nasal point can be arising as congenital malformation or as results of unsuccessfully surgery. The nasal valve alteration due to this problem is not only an esthetic problem but also a functional one because can modify the nasal airflow. Several surgical techniques were proposed in literature, we proposed our. Objective The purpose of the study is the evaluation of nose airway flow using our flip-flap technique for correction of pinched nasal tip. Methods This is a retrospective study conducted on twelve patients. Tip cartilages were remodeled by means of autologous alar cartilage grafting. The patients underwent a rhinomanometry pre and post-surgery to evaluate the results, and they performed a self-survey to evaluate their degree of satisfaction in term of airflow sensation improvement. Results Rhinomanometry showed improved nasal air flow (range from 25% to 75%) in all patients. No significant differences were showed between unilateral and bilateral alar malformation (p = 0.49). Patient's satisfaction reached the 87.5%. Conclusion Our analysis on the combined results (rhinomanometry and surveys) showed that this technique leads to improvement of nasal flow in patients affected by pinched nasal tip in all cases.

Resumo Introdução A ponta nasal comprimida pode surgir como malformação congênita ou como o desfecho de uma cirurgia malsucedida. A alteração da válvula nasal devido a esse problema não é apenas um problema estético, mas também funcional, porque pode modificar o fluxo aéreo nasal. Várias técnicas cirúrgicas têm sido propostas na literatura; aqui, propomos a nossa. Objetivo O objetivo do estudo é a avaliação do fluxo das vias aéreas nasais utilizando nossa técnica de flip-flap para correção da ponta nasal comprimida. Métodos Este é um estudo retrospectivo realizado em doze pacientes. As cartilagens da ponta nasal foram remodeladas através de enxerto de cartilagem alar autóloga. Os pacientes foram submetidos à rinomanometria pré e pós-cirúrgica para avaliar os resultados, e realizaram uma auto-avaliação para avaliar seu grau de satisfação em termos de melhora da sensação do fluxo aéreo. Resultados e conclusão Nossa análise dos resultados combinados (rinomanometria e autoavaliação) mostrou que essa técnica melhora o fluxo nasal em pacientes afetados por ponta nasal comprimida em todos os casos. A satisfação do paciente atingiu os 87,5%.

Functional results in airflow improvement using a "flip-flap" alar technique: our experience.

INTRODUCTION: Pinched nasal point can be arising as congenital malformation or as results of unsuccessfully surgery. The nasal valve alteration due to this problem is not only an esthetic problem but also a functional one because can modify the nasal airflow. Several surgical techniques were proposed in literature, we proposed our. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study is the evaluation of nose airway flow using our flip-flap technique for correction of pinched nasal tip. METHODS: This is a retrospective study conducted on twelve patients. Tip cartilages were remodeled by means of autologous alar cartilage grafting. The patients underwent a rhinomanometry pre and post-surgery to evaluate the results, and they performed a self-survey to evaluate their degree of satisfaction in term of airflow sensation improvement. RESULTS: Rhinomanometry showed improved nasal air flow (range from 25% to 75%) in all patients. No significant differences were showed between unilateral and bilateral alar malformation (p=0.49). Patient's satisfaction reached the 87.5%. CONCLUSION: Our analysis on the combined results (rhinomanometry and surveys) showed that this technique leads to improvement of nasal flow in patients affected by pinched nasal tip in all cases.

Evaluation of pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow.

INTRODUCTION: Nasal obstruction is a frequent complaint in otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinics, and nasal valve incompetence is the cause in most cases. Scientific publications describing surgical techniques on the upper and lower lateral cartilages to improve the nasal valve are also quite frequent. Relatively few authors currently describe surgical procedures in the piriform aperture for nasal valve augmentation. We describe the surgical technique called pyriform plasty and evaluate its effectiveness subjectively through the NOSE questionnaire and objectively through the rhinomanometry evaluation. OBJECTIVE: To compare pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow variations using rhinomanometry and the NOSE questionnaire. METHODS: Eight patients submitted to pyriform surgery were studied. These patients were screened in the otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic among those who complained of nasal obstruction, and who had a positive response to Cottle maneuver. They answered the NOSE questionnaire and were submitted to preoperative rhinomanometry. After 90 days, they were reassessed through the NOSE questionnaire and the postoperative rhinomanometry. The results of these two parameters were compared pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: Regarding the subjective measure, the NOSE questionnaire, seven patients reported improvement, of which two reported marked improvement, and one patient reported an unchanged obstructive condition. Regarding the rhinomanometry assessment, of 96 comparative measurements between the preoperative and postoperative periods, we obtained 68 measurements with an increase in nasal airflow in the postoperative period, 26 negative results, and two cases that remained unaltered between the preoperative and postoperative periods. CONCLUSION: When analyzing the results obtained in this study, we can conclude that the piriform plasty surgical procedure resulted in nasal airflow improvement in most of the obtained measurements.

Dimensões nasofaríngeas em indivíduos sem anomalias craniofaciais: dados normativos / Nasopharyngeal dimensions in normal individuals: normative data

RESUMO Objetivo Determinar os valores controles da área de secção transversa mínima nasofaríngea de indivíduos sem anomalias craniofaciais e em diferentes faixas etárias. Material e Método Participaram do estudo 96 indivíduos sem anomalias craniofaciais, de ambos os sexos, com índice de massa corpórea e circunferência cervical normais, subdivididos em 4 grupos etários: crianças com idade entre 6 e 10 anos (G1), adolescentes de 11 a 17 anos (G2), adultos jovens entre 18 e 39 anos (G3) e adultos de meia-idade entre 40 e 59 anos (G4). A área seccional transversa mínima nasofaríngea (área nasofaríngea – ANF) foi determinada por meio de rinomanometria anterior modificada (técnica fluxo-pressão), utilizando o sistema PERCI-SARS (versão 3.50 – Microtronics Corp.). Resultados Os valores médios±DP da ANF foram de 1,025±0,054cm2, 1,055±0,081cm2, 1,050±0,083cm2 e 1,054±0,081cm2, respectivamente, para G1, G2, G3 e G4, não havendo diferença entre as 4 faixas etárias. Conclusão Os valores controles da ANF foram determinados para indivíduos sem anomalias craniofaciais de diferentes faixas etárias e servirão de referência na rotina clínica e em estudos envolvendo diagnóstico de obstrução nasofaríngea, principalmente na presença de anomalias craniofaciais.

ABSTRACT Objective To establish normative values of minimum cross-sectional nasopharyngeal area in individuals without craniofacial anomalies at different age ranges. Material and Method Ninety-six individuals of both genders, without craniofacial anomalies, and with normal body mass index and neck circumference were evaluated. Participants were divided into 4 age groups: children, aged 6 to 10 years (G1); adolescents, aged 11 to 17 years (G2); young adults, 18 to 39 years (G3), and middle-aged adults, 40 to 59 years (G4). Minimum cross-sectional nasopharyngeal area (nasopharyngeal area – NPA) was assessed by means of modified anterior rhinomanometry (pressure-flow technique) using a PERCI-SARS system (version 3.50 – Microtronics Corp.). Results Mean±SD values of NPA were 1.025±0.054cm2, 1.055±0.081cm2, 1.050±0.083cm2, and 1.054±0.081cm2, respectively for groups G1, G2, G3, and G4, showing that there were no differences between the four age groups. Conclusion Normative data of NPA were established for individuals without craniofacial anomalies from different age ranges, and they may be used as reference values in the clinical routine and for future studies regarding nasopharyngeal obstruction diagnosis, particularly in cases of craniofacial anomalies.

Acoustic Rhinometry in Nasal Provocation Tests in Children and Adolescents.

OBJECTIVES: To standardize acoustic rhinometry (AR) in nasal provocation tests (NPTs) with histamine in children and adolescents. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional validation to compare AR with anterior active rhinomanometry (AAR) during histamine NPT in 20 children and adolescents with persistent allergic rhinitis and 20 controls. Changes in total nasal resistance (AAR) were compared with changes in nasal volume in the first 5 cm (V5). RESULTS: Compared with controls, patients with rhinitis had significantly higher mean total nasal resistance (0.34 Pa/cm3/s vs 0.21 Pa/cm3/s; P=.01) and lower mean V5 values (8.20 cm3 vs 9.24 cm3; P=.04) at baseline. The mean histamine concentration necessary to increase total nasal resistance by at least 100% was significantly lower in the rhinitis group than in the control group (0.72 mg/mL vs 2.4 mg/mL; P<.001). At the end of the NPT a mean increase of 126% in total nasal resistance and a mean decrease of 24.3% in V5 were observed in the rhinitis group. When compared with the AAR criteria, the highest sensitivity and specificity values were observed for a cutoff represented by a 19%-21% drop in V5. CONCLUSIONS: We found AR to be a feasible and sensitive tool for monitoring nasal response in children and adolescents undergoing histamine NPT. The best AR cutoff for ending the NPT was a 19%-21% drop in V5.

Análise comparativa da atividade velofaríngea aferida por rinometria acústica e rinomanometria / Comparative analysis of velopharyngeal activity assessed by acoustic rhinometry and rhinomanometry

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a atividade velofaríngea (VF) de indivíduos com disfunção velofaríngea (DVF) aferida por rinometria acústica, comparativamente à rinomanometria. Métodos: Estudo clínico prospectivo em 41 adultos, de ambos os gêneros, com fissura de palato±lábio previamente operada e DVF residual ao exame clínico, sem articulação compensatória nas plosivas surdas [p], [t] e [k]. Variáveis analisadas: (1) variação volumétrica da nasofaringe (∆V) na produção das três plosivas, relativamente ao repouso, por rinometria acústica (reduções <3 cm3 foram consideradas como ausência de atividade velofaríngea); (2) área do orifício velofaríngeo (área VF), por rinomanometria anterior modificada; áreas ≥0,05 cm2 foram consideradas como fechamento inadequado. Na comparação das técnicas foi utilizada a plosiva [p] (n=24). Resultados: Observou-se: (1) ∆V médio de 18% no [k], significantemente menor (p<0,05) que a redução relatada para normais (30%); valores de ∆V sugestivos de DVF constatados em 59% dos casos. Resultados similares foram obtidos no [p] e [t], mostrando-se mais apropriados para o exame rinométrico, por não envolverem a participação da língua no fechamento velofaríngeo, diferentemente da plosiva velar [k]; (2) fechamento VF inadequado em 85% dos casos. Não houve correlação significativa entre o ∆V e a área do orifício velofaríngeo. A concordância de diagnóstico entre os métodos ocorreu em 51% dos casos. Conclusão: A rinometria acústica não apresentou boa acurácia como método de diagnóstico da DVF frente ao método padrão. Demonstrou, contudo, potencial como método de acompanhamento dos resultados de intervenções clínico-cirúrgicas que levem à maior atividade velar e faríngea.

ABSTRACT Purpose: To analyze the velopharyngeal (VP) activity of subjects with velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) by acoustic rhinometry, as compared to rhinomanometry. Methods: This was a prospective clinical study conducted in 41 adults, both genders, with repaired cleft palate, with or without a previously repaired cleft lip, and residual VPD on clinical assessment, without compensatory articulations for [p], [t], and [k]. The outcome measures were as follows: (1) on acoustic rhinometry, nasopharyngeal volumetric change (ΔV) during [p], [t], and [k], relatively to rest condition (decreases by <3 cm3 considered as absence of VP activity); (2) on modified anterior rhinomanometry, VP orifice area (areas ≥0.05 cm2 considered as inadequate closure). The plosive [p] was used when comparing the techniques (n=24). Results: (1) A mean ΔV decrease of 18% was observed during [k], which was significantly lower (p<0.05) than the decrease reported for individuals without VPD (30%). ΔV values suggesting VPD were observed in 59% subjects. Similar results were obtained for [p] and [t], which shall be used as stimulus, given that they do not involve the use of the tongue to lift the velum during VP closure, differently from the velar plosive [k]. (2) Inadequate closure was seen in 85% subjects. No correlation was observed between ∆V and VP orifice area. Agreement between techniques was observed in 51% cases. Conclusion: Acoustic rhinometry had low accuracy as a diagnostic method of VPD when compared to the gold standard method. Nevertheless, the technique shows potential as a method for monitoring the outcomes of clinical and surgical treatment of VPD aimed at increasing velar and pharyngeal activity.

Comparação entre cirurgia do retalho faríngeo e esfincteroplastia: análise nasométrica e aerodinâmica / Comparison between pharyngeal flap surgery and sphincteroplasty: nasometric and aerodynamic analysis

OBJETIVO: comparar o efeito do retalho faríngeo e da esfincteroplastia sobre a hipernasalidade da fala e o fechamento velofaríngeo no tratamento de indivíduos com insuficiência velofaríngea residual, por meio de avaliação instrumental. MÉTODOS: foram avaliados 30 pacientes, com fissura de palato±lábio reparada, submetidos à correção cirúrgica da insuficiência velofaríngea (15 com retalho faríngeo e 15 com esfincteroplastia), avaliados antes e, no mínimo, 1 ano após a cirurgia. A hipernasalidade foi estimada a partir dos escores de nasalância (correlato físico da nasalidade) obtidos por meio da nasometria, durante a leitura de 5 sentenças contendo, exclusivamente, sons orais, considerando como limite de normalidade o escore de 27%. O fechamento velofaríngeo foi aferido a partir da medida da área velofaríngea obtida por meio da técnica fluxo-pressão e foi classificado em: 0-4,9mm2=adequado; 5-19,9mm2=marginal e, >20mm2=inadequado. Diferenças entre as duas técnicas foram consideradas estatisticamente significantes ao nível de 5%. RESULTADOS: antes da cirurgia, os valores médios de nasalância foram de 43±8,4% e 45±14,2% e de área velofaríngea foram 51±35,4mm2, e 69±29,2mm2, para os grupos retalho faríngeo e esfincteroplastia, respectivamente. Após a cirurgia, os valores médios de nasalância reduziram para 27±10,1% e 31±14,2% e de área velofaríngea para 3,6±5,5mm2 e 24±32,7mm2 para os grupos retalho faríngeo e esfincteroplastia, respectivamente. A redução dos valores de nasalância e área velofaríngea foi estatisticamente significante nos dois grupos. CONCLUSÃO: estes resultados sugerem que o retalho faríngeo foi mais eficiente do que a esfincteroplastia na eliminação da hipernasalidade e adequação do fechamento velofaríngeo nos pacientes estudados. .

PURPOSE: to compare the effect of pharyngeal flap surgery and sphincteroplasty on hypernasality and velopharyngeal closure in velopharyngeal insufficiency management, by means of instrumental assessment. METHODS: thirty patients with repaired cleft palate±lip, submitted to surgical treatment for velopharyngeal insufficiency (15 pharyngeal flap and 15 sphincteroplasty) were evaluated before and, at least, 1 year after surgery. Hypernasality was estimated by means of nasalance scores (acoustic correlate of nasality) obtained by nasometry considering a cutoff score of 27%. Velopharyngeal closure was determined by the velopharyngeal area measurement. Nasalance scores were obtained by nasometry, during the reading of a set of 5 sentences containing exclusively oral sounds, considering the cutoff value of 27%. Velopharyngeal area was provided by the measurement of velopharyngeal area by means of pressure-flow technique and was classified as: 0 to 4.9 mm2=adequate; 5 to 19.9 mm2=borderline and ≥20mm2 inadequate. Differences between the two techniques were accepted as significant when p < 0.05. RESULTS: before surgery. nasalance mean scores were 43±8.4% and 45±14.2% and velopharyngeal area mean were 51±35.4mm2 and 69±29.2mm2 for the pharyngeal flap and sphincteroplasty groups, respectively. After surgery, nasalance mean scores were 27±10.1% and 31±14.2% and velopharyngeal area mean were 3.6±5.5mm2 and 24±32.7mm2 for the pharyngeal flap and sphincteroplasty groups, respectively. The reduction of the nasalance scores and velopharyngeal area was statistically significant in both groups. CONCLUSION: these results suggest that pharyngeal flap demonstrated to be more efficient than sphincteroplasty in the elimination of hypernasality and adequacy of velopharyngeal closure in the patients studied. .