Differences in velopharyngeal pressures during speech sound production in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and healthy individuals

Background

During articulation the velopharynx needs to be opened and closed rapidly and a tight closure is needed. Based on the hypothesis that patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) produce lower pressures in the velopharynx than healthy individuals, this study compared pressure profiles of the velopharyngeal closure during articulation of different sounds between healthy participants and patients with surgically closed unilateral CLP (UCLP) using high resolution manometry (HRM).

Materials and methods

Ten healthy adult volunteers (group 1: 20-25.5 years) and ten patients with a non-syndromic surgically reconstructed UCLP (group 2: 19.1-26.9 years) were included in this study. Pressure profiles during the articulation of four sounds (/i:/, /s/, /ʃ/ and /n/) were measured by HRM. Maximum, minimum and average pressures, time intervals as well as detection of a previously described 3-phase-model were compared.

Results

Both groups presented with similar pressure curves for each phoneme with regards to the phases described and pressure peaks, but differed in total pressures. An exception was noted for the sound /i:/, where a 3-phase-model could not be seen for most patients with UCLP. Differences in velopharynx pressures of 50% and more were found between the two groups. Maximum and average pressures in the production of the alveolar fricative reached statistical significance.

Conclusions

It can be concluded that velopharyngeal pressures of patients with UCLP are not sufficient to eliminate nasal resonance or turbulence during articulation, especially for more complex sounds. These results support a general understanding of hypernasality during speech implying a (relative) velopharyngeal insufficiency.

Modification of velopharyngeal closure pressures during phonation by neuromuscular electrical stimulation in healthy individuals

Introduction

Rhinophonia aperta may result from velopharyngeal insufficiency. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been discussed in the context of muscle strengthening. The aim of this study was to evaluate in healthy subjects whether NMES can change the velopharyngeal closure pattern during phonation and increase muscle strength.

Method

Eleven healthy adult volunteers (21-57 years) were included. Pressure profiles were measured by high resolution manometry (HRM): isolated sustained articulation of /a/ over 5 s (protocol 1), isolated NMES applied to soft palate above motor threshold (protocol 2) and combined articulation with NMES (protocol 3). Mean activation pressures (MeanAct), maximum pressures (Max), Area under curve (AUC) and type of velum reactions were compared. A statistical comparison of mean values of protocol 1 versus protocol 3 was carried out using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Ordinally scaled parameters were analyzed by cross table.

Results

MeanAct values measured: 17.15±20.69 mmHg (protocol 1), 34.59±25.75 mmHg (protocol 3) on average, Max: 37.86±49.17 mmHg (protocol 1), 87.24±59.53 mmHg (protocol 3) and AUC: 17.06±20.70 mmHg.s (protocol 1), 33.76±23.81 mmHg.s (protocol 3). Protocol 2 produced velum reactions on 32 occasions. These presented with MeanAct values of 13.58±12.40 mmHg, Max values of 56.14±53.14 mmHg and AUC values of 13.84±12.78 mmHg.s on average. Statistical analysis comparing protocol 1 and 3 showed more positive ranks for MeanAct, Max and AUC. This difference reached statistical significance (p=0.026) for maximum pressure values.

Conclusions

NMES in combination with articulation results in a change of the velopharyngeal closure pattern with a pressure increase of around 200% in healthy individuals. This might be of therapeutic benefit for patients with velopharyngeal insufficiency.

[Prevalence of mucosal injuries during flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing in the presence of a nasogastric tube]

BACKGROUND

The flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is an established low-risk examination method to assess the risk of penetration or aspiration in patients with dysphagia. FEES might be more difficult or of higher-risk when a nasogastric tube is in place.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify whether the prevalence of mucosal lesions is higher when the endoscopy is carried out with a nasogastric tube in place. Pre-existing mucosal lesions were also documented.

METHODS

In a retrospective, monocentric study, a total of 918 FEES procedures routinely performed in hospitalized patients of a university hospital from January 2014 to March 2019 were evaluated. Mucosal lesions were identified and characterized for descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

In the video material analysed here, no endoscopy-related injuries were identified. However, pre-existing mucosal lesions, which often occurred as multiple lesions, were detected in 48.6% of the endoscopies. Further analysis showed that these pre-existing lesions were not worsened by the endoscopy performed.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that transnasal flexible endoscopy is a safe, low-risk examination method, even in patients with a nasogastric tube. A very high number of pre-existing mucosal lesions were found, which is probably related to the previous insertion of the nasogastric tube. Due to the high number of pre-existing lesions, strategies should be developed to minimize injuries when placing nasogastric tubes.

Phonation-induced Upper Esophageal Sphincter Contraction Caused by Different Phonation Types

INTRODUCTION

The upper esophageal sphincter (UES) has been reported to show activity during phonation. As it is still unknown whether the phonation-induced UES contraction represents a reflex or a simultaneous activation phenomenon, i.e. co-innervation, this study aims to investigate and characterize the phonation-induced contraction of the UES in healthy individuals by analyzing the influence of various phonation tasks on pressure parameters of the UES.

METHODS

Twenty-five healthy volunteers produced the German neutral vowel [ə] in five different phonation tasks (modal voice, whispering, voiceless speech, creaky voice, and whispery voice). Simultaneously, they underwent high resolution manometry and electroglottography for measurement of pressure parameters in the region of the UES and latencies between larynx and UES activation.

RESULTS

During all types of phonation, the maximum pressures of the UES increased significantly (maximum pressure increases of 72%-132%). With regard to mean pressures this was valid for modal voice and whispering (mean pressure increases of 20%-25%). Differences concerning total pressure changes reached statistical significance when comparing whispering and voiceless speech as well as whispery voice. However, differences concerning the total pressure change between modal voices on the one hand and voiceless speech and whispery voice on the other hand turned out to be small. The averaged time delay between larynx and UES activation ranged from approximately -15 ms (whispery voice) to +15 ms (whispering).

CONCLUSION

A phonation induced pressure increase of the UES was confirmed in this study and did exist for different types of phonation. The extent of total pressure changes in the UES increases in relation with laryngeal muscle activity necessary for the phonation type. Next to varying effects of different types of phonation on UES activation, very short latencies indicate that a phonation induced contraction of the UES exists most likely due to co-innervation of UES and laryngeal muscles by the vagus nerve.

Studying effects of neuromuscular electrostimulation therapy in patients with dysphagia: which pitfalls may occur? A translational phase I study

Background: Previous results of clinical studies suggest that neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) therapy, especially in combination with traditional dysphagia therapy, may be helpful in patients with neurogenic swallowing disorders. In these studies, repetitive application of a rectangular current impulse was used to increase muscle strength of the anterior neck. However, according to sports physiological findings, an increase of muscle strength can be better achieved by using different NMES stimulation protocols, e.g. KOTS. The aim of the translational investigator-initiated, non-commercial pilot study presented here was to provide data and insights for the planning of subsequent phase II and III studies on the effectiveness of such stimulation protocols in dysphagia therapy. Methods: 30 post-stroke patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia were included in this prospective pilot study and randomly allocated to either neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) or sham stimulation in combination with traditional dysphagia therapy (TDT), a pre- and post-therapeutic fiberoptic-endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) with the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS) (primary outcome measure), Secretion Scale by Murray, Penetration and Aspiration Scale (PAS) and throat clearance (TC) abilities. Recruitment rate, interrater comparison and number of relevant adverse events were recorded as metadata. Results: Despite a recruiting time of over 24 months, only twelve patients could be included. Moreover, clinical data indicated a significant variance of clinical pictures. Significant differences in verum versus sham therapy were not observed. DOSS values in both study groups showed general improvements at the end of the trial. Interrater reliability was low. No adverse events were reported. Discussion: When planning further dysphagia therapy studies, it must be taken into account that it can be problematic to recruit sufficiently large study collectives within an appropriate study period. This is especially important since a possible additional benefit of NMES to TDT is probably rather small or may only occur in certain deficit constellations. The low interrater reliability observed here must be improved by appropriate training measures. Fortunately, no relevant undesirable side effects occurred. This could have a positive effect on the acceptance of volunteers to participate in the study.

Effect of Capsaicinoids on Neurophysiological, Biochemical, and Mechanical Parameters of Swallowing Function

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is prevalent in age-related neurological disorders presenting with impaired efficacy and safety of swallowing due to a loss of muscle force and sensory deficits. Stimulating the oropharynx with capsaicin that mediates Substance P release is an emerging pharmacological treatment option which needs further scientific evidence. Our aim was to comprehensively evaluate the effect of capsaicin on biochemical, neurophysiological, and biomechanical parameters of swallowing function. In a randomized study on healthy individuals, the impact of orally administered capsaicinoids at different dosages and application durations in comparison to non-carbonated water was evaluated. Time course and magnitude of salivary Substance P increase were monitored. Magnetoencephalography was used to detect cortical swallowing network alterations. Modifications in swallowing biomechanics were measured applying high-resolution pharyngeal manometry. Capsaicinoids at 10 μmol/L improved swallowing efficacy as seen by a significant increase of pharyngeal contractile integral and upper esophageal sphincter activation and relaxation times in manometry. Significant improvement of precision in a challenging swallow task accompanied by a reduction in swallowing-related submental electromyographic power was observed with capsaicinoids preconditioning at 10 μmol/L over 5 min, but not with continuous stimulation. The cortical activation pattern remained unchanged after any intervention. A significant increase of salivary Substance P was not detected with 10 μmol/L but with 50 μmol/L and lasted for 15 min after application. Capsaicinoids mediate dose-dependent Substance P release and positively alter swallowing biomechanics in healthy subjects. The results provide supportive evidence for the value of natural capsaicinoids to improve swallowing function.

Upper Esophageal Sphincter Response to Laryngeal Adductor Reflex Elicitation in Humans

OBJECTIVE

The laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) is an important mechanism to secure the airways from potential foreign body aspiration. An involvement of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) in terms of a laryngo-UES contractile reflex has been identified after laryngeal mucosa stimulation. However, the LAR-UES relationship has not yet been fully explained. This study aimed to determine the magnitude, latency, and occurrence rate of the UES pressure response when the LAR is triggered in order to elucidate the functional relationship between the larynx and the UES.

METHODS

This prospective study included seven healthy volunteers (5 female, 2 male, age 22-34 years). Laryngeal penetration was simulated by eliciting the LAR 20 times in each individual by applying water-based microdroplets onto the laryngeal mucosa. UES pressures were measured simultaneously using high-resolution manometry.

RESULTS

Two distinct pressure phases (P1, P2) associated with the LAR were identified. P1 corresponded with a short-term UES pressure decrease in two subjects and a pressure increase in five subjects occurring 200 to 500 ms after the stimulus. In P2, all subjects experienced an increase in UES pressure with a latency time of approximately 800 to 1700 ms and an average of 40 to 90 mmHg above the UES resting tone.

CONCLUSION

Foreign bodies penetrating the laryngeal inlet lead to a reflex contraction of the UES. Phase P1 could be a result of vocal fold activity caused by the LAR, leading to pressure changes in the UES. The constriction during P2 could strengthen the barrier function of the UES in preparation to a subsequent cough that may be triggered to clear the airways.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1778-E1784, 2021.

Droplet applicator module for reproducible and controlled endoscopic laryngeal adductor reflex stimulation

This work presents a droplet applicator module to generate stable droplets with different muzzle energies for the reproducible endoscopic stimulation of the laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR). The LAR is a protective reflex of the human larynx; an abnormal LAR performance may cause aspiration pneumonia. A pathological LAR can be detected by evaluating its onset latency. The reflex can be triggered by shooting a droplet onto the laryngeal mucosa, which is referred to as Microdroplet Impulse Testing of the LAR (MIT-LAR). Stimulation intensity variation is desired as the reflex threshold may vary inter-individually. The kinetic energy of a droplet after detachment from the nozzle, i.e., its muzzle energy, is considered an appropriate metric for the LAR stimulation intensity. In this work, a suitable nozzle channel geometry is identified based on the experimental evaluation of droplet formation using three different nozzle channel geometries. Two nontoxic additives are evaluated regarding their effect on fluid properties and droplet formation. The range of achievable droplet muzzle energies is determined by high-speed cinematography in association with a physically motivated model of the macroscopic droplet motion. The experimental results show that sodium chloride is a suitable additive to enhance droplet stability in the studied parameter range with the proposed system. Droplet muzzle energy variation from 0.02  μ J to 1.37  μ J was achieved while preserving the formation of a single stimulation droplet. These results are an important prerequisite for a safe and reproducible LAR stimulation by MIT-LAR, which could also help to further elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying this laryngeal reflex.

Euclidean distances of laryngopharyngeal structures obtained from CT data for preclinical development of laryngoscopic devices

PURPOSE

This study aims to determine Euclidean distances between landmark structures in the larynx and pharynx to optimize endoscope shaft designs with regard to gentle and patient-oriented handling.

METHODS

Four Euclidean distances between landmarks in the larynx and pharynx were analyzed based on CT data of 66 patients. Distance (1): labium inferius oris-posterior pharyngeal wall at the cervical vertebra C1 (atlas), anterior edge of the tuberculum anterius atlantis. Distance (2): posterior pharyngeal wall adjacent to C1-entrance of pyriform sinus. Distance (3): inferior edge of the uvula-superior edge of the epiglottis. Distance (4): base of the vallecula-posterior pharyngeal wall. The minimum angular field of view α required to observe the glottis with a rigid transoral laryngoscope was derived trigonometrically from distances (2) and (4).

RESULTS

Average Euclidean distances measured: Distance (1): 90.7 mm ± 6.9 mm in men and 86.9 mm ± 5.9 mm in women. (2): 73.7 mm ± 13.4 mm and 56.2 mm ± 7.6 mm. (3): 25.2 mm ± 8.6 mm and 18.5 mm ± 6.8 mm. (4): 20.8 mm ± 4.6 mm and 16.5 mm ± 3.4 mm. α: 16.0° ± 3.9° and 16.6 ± 4.3°.

CONCLUSIONS

As expected, statistically significant sex-related differences could be observed for distances (1)-(4). The results indicate that the length of transoral laryngoscopes should not be below 110 mm and that a minimum angular field of view of α = 17° is required to fully observe the laryngeal inlet.

Deglutition in Patients With Hypernasality Associated With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Evaluated With High-Resolution Manometry

Objective:

To evaluate pharyngeal pressure profiles during swallowing in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and identify compensation mechanisms.

Design:

Prospective experimental study.

Setting:

University Hospital and Medical School.

Participants:

Ten volunteers and 10 patients with nonsyndromic repaired UCLP with hypernasality (age: 19-27 years, 5 females and 5 males per group) were included.

Interventions:

All participants swallowed 2 and 10 mL of water and underwent high-resolution manometry (HRM).

Main Outcome Measures:

Pharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) parameters were measured using HRM. Student t test was used for statistical intergroup comparisons. Additionally, the Sydney Swallowing Questionnaire (SSQ) was used as a subjective measure.

Results:

Patients exhibited reduced velopharyngeal closing pressure and velopharyngeal and tongue base (TB) region contraction times, compared to volunteers ( P < .05). The UES opening and closing functions did not change. The SSQ revealed nasal regurgitation in some patients.

Conclusions:

In patients with UCLP, velopharyngeal region alterations are caused by impaired muscle force and function. The reduced TB contraction time may be a compensation mechanism allowing bolus transportation without nasal regurgitation. However, deglutition is not completely altered since UES function remains normal. Future studies will need to reveal at which point a decrease in velopharyngeal closing pressure will result in velopharyngeal insufficiency.

An actuated larynx phantom for pre-clinical evaluation of droplet-based reflex-stimulating laryngoscopes

The laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) is an important protective function of the larynx to prevent aspiration and potentially fatal aspiration pneumonia by rapidly closing the glottis. Recently, a novel method for targeted stimulation and evaluation of the LAR has been proposed to enable non-invasive and reproducible LAR performance grading and to extend the understanding of this reflexive mechanism. The method relies on the laryngoscopically controlled application of accelerated water droplets in association with a high-speed camera system for LAR stimulation site and reflex onset latency identification. Prototype laryngoscopes destined for this method require validation prior to extensive clinical trials. Furthermore, demonstrations using a realistic phantom could increase patient compliance in future clinical settings. For these purposes, a model of the human larynx including vocal fold actuation for LAR simulation was developed in this work. The combination of image processing based on a custom algorithm and individual motorization of each vocal fold enables spatio-temporal droplet impact detection and controlled vocal fold adduction. To simulate different LAR pathologies, the current implementation allows to individually adjust the reflex onset latency of the ipsi- and contralateral vocal fold with respect to the automatically detected impact location of the droplet as well as the maximum adduction angle of each vocal fold. An experimental study of the temporal offset between desired and observed LAR onset latency due to image processing was performed for three average droplet masses based on highspeed recordings of the phantom. Median offsets of 100, 120 and 128 ms were found (n=16). This offset most likely has a multifactorial cause (image processing delay, inertia of the mechanical components, droplet motion). The observed offset increased with increasing droplet mass, as fluid oscillations after impact may have been detected as motion. In future work, alternative methods for droplet impact detection could be explored and the observed offset could be used for compensation of this undesirable delay.

[Evaluation of velopharyngeal closing pressure during trumpet play with high-resolution manometry]

OBJECTIVE

In about one-third of brass instrumentalists, there are stress-related insufficiencies of velopharyngeal closure (VPC), i. e. the intraoral pressure exceeds the barrier formed by the VPC. Here, it was the aim to measure the VPC closing pressure while playing a trumpet and to evaluate the influence of a 30 minute stress sequence on the muscular activities in the VPC.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sample: 6 healthy volunteers; task: to play the sound h1 for 5 seconds with 85 dB(A) and with 100 dB(A).

METHODOLOGY

High-resolution manometry (HRM).

SAMPLING

t0: measurement without warm up phase t1 after 30 min trumpet play; practice phase with predefined pieces of music.

VARIABLES

mean (p_mit), minimum (p_min) and maximum pressure (p_max) in the VPA at t0 and t1.

STATISTICS

testing for normal distribution, t-test.

RESULTS

All measured pressures in the VPC decreased from t0 to t1 for tones produced at 85 dB(A). For 100 dB(A) tones only the p_min decreased significantly. The pressures in the VPA were higher at 100 dB(A) tones overall compared to 85 dB(A) tones, significant differences were found for p_min and p_max at t0.

CONCLUSION

Tones played at louder volumes require a stronger muscular contraction in the VPC. The lower VPC pressure after the exercise phase (t1) can either result from a physiological muscular adaptation to the pressure level necessary for a sufficient VPC or already be a sign of muscular fatigue. These findings may be important to assess the work ability of wind instrumentalists by HRM. As shown for the phonation, the VPC pressure profile for the trumpet play can also be described with a three-phase model consisting of an initiation, a stable phase and a termination.

[Effect of Bolus Volume on Pharyngeal Swallowing Dynamics Evaluated with Small High-Resolution Manometry Catheters]

The bolus volume has a modulating effect on the swallowing dynamics, but previously reported adaptations of the pharyngeal function have been inconsistent. Therefore, the aim of this study was to comprehensively evaluate changes of pressure and time parameters in the pharynx and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) in relation to the swallowed bolus volume with high-resolution manometry (HRM). To examine the normal swallowing physiology, particularly thin HRM probes were used, which were expected to influence the investigated structures only minimally.10 healthy volunteers accomplished 10 swallows with 2 and 10 ml water respectively in an upright position, while an HRM-examination was performed. Pressure and time parameters of the velopharynx, the tongue base region and the UES were determined and analyzed for statistical differences with respect to the bolus volume.Swallowing larger bolus volumes resulted in both, a longer closure of the velopharynx and in a longer opening of the UES. Volume dependent pressure changes in the pharyngeal swallowing sequence were not detectable.Under the chosen test conditions, bolus volume had an impact on the time parameters of the pharyngeal phase, thus, temporal adaptations of the automated swallowing dynamics were detected. Changes in pharyngeal pressure parameters as shown in other studies cannot be confirmed. They may be due to HRM probes with a larger diameter, which take an effect on the pharyngeal structures themselves. With regard to diagnostic aspects, HRM studies should always be conducted with different bolus volumes in order to investigate the swallowing process completely.

[Laryngeal and larynx-associated reflexes]

The laryngeal adductor reflex and the pharyngoglottal closure reflex protect the trachea and lower respiratory tract against the entrance of foreign material. The laryngeal expiration reflex and the cough reflex serve to propel foreign material, which has penetrated in the cranial direction. The inspiration reflex, the sniff reflex, and the swallowing reflex are further larynx-associated reflexes. In patients with dysphagia the laryngeal adductor reflex can be clinically tested with air pulses. The water swallow test serves to show the integrity of the cough reflex. The sniff reflex is useful to test the abduction function of the vocal folds. Future studies should address laryngeal reflexes more specifically, both for a better understanding of these life-supporting mechanisms and to improve diagnostic procedures in patients with impaired laryngeal function.

[High resolution manometry study of pharyngeal function in patients with myotonic dystrophy]

BACKGROUND

Patients with myotonic dystrophy (MD) are known to suffer from oropharyngeal dysphagia and esophageal motility disorders, which are often the cause of aspiration pneumonia. So far only little is known about the pharyngeal contractility and the function of the upper esophageal sphincter in these patients, in particular only few data are available for manometric investigations allowing assessment of the pharyngeal pressure build-up during swallowing. The aim of this study was to collect such data in patients with MD using high resolution manometry.

METHOD

In two patients with MD high resolution manometry studies were performed during swallowing and phonation to determine pressure-dependent parameters. The results were compared with normal values from healthy subjects.

RESULTS

In both patients a reduced pressure in the entire pharynx during swallowing was determined. The duration of the contraction in the velopharynx and tongue base region was shortened. The structural course of the swallowing process and the opening and closing functions of the upper esophageal sphincter were regular. During realization of closed vowels a reduced pressure build-up in the velopharyngeal region was observed.

CONCLUSION

The force of contraction and the associated pharyngeal pressure build-up during swallowing were reduced resulting in an incomplete clearing of the pharynx. Beside myopathic disorders, neuromuscular disorders also have to be considered. The functional course of the swallowing process and the swallowing pattern was retained. The reduced pressure build-up in the velopharyngeal region can be considered as the cause for rhinophonia. To evaluate the pharyngeal function in patients with MD, high resolution manometry is a useful tool for assessing the pharyngeal function besides the basic diagnostics.

Effect of saline inhalation on vocal fold epithelial morphology evaluated by optical coherence tomography

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Examination of tissue structures by optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been shown to be useful on mucous membranes of the vocal folds, but so far its application to the human larynx has been limited because it is technically cumbersome and usually needs to be performed with sedation. Here a newly developed, noninvasive combined laryngoscopy and OCT procedure is described and its suitability for ambulatory OCT studies evaluated. Because inhalation therapies utilizing saline solutions are commonly used as a treatment option for disorders of the airways, and vocal fold epithelium is most likely to be affected due to its superficial positioning, epithelial thickness was chosen as a relevant test parameter and evaluated before and after saline inhalation.

METHODS

Seven vocally healthy participants performed a 10-minute inhalation of saline solution and underwent a combined laryngoscopy and OCT before and after the inhalation therapy. Endoscopy was performed using a newly developed combined laryngoscopy and OCT device. The OCT images were used to estimate the epithelial thickness of the vocal folds.

RESULTS

Epithelial thickness measured in all participants before treatment was comparable in size reported in previous studies. Statistical differences before and after inhalation were not detected.

CONCLUSION

The newly developed combined laryngoscopy and OCT procedure enables rapid investigation of the vocal fold epithelium. Inhalation of saline solution did not appear to affect the thickness of the epithelium of the vocal folds in vocally healthy subjects, as evaluated by OCT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

N/A. Laryngoscope, 126:E332-E336, 2016.

Automated working distance adjustment enables optical coherence tomography of the human larynx in awake patients

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides structural information of laryngeal tissue which is comparable to histopathological analysis of biopsies taken under general anesthesia. In awake patients, movements impede clinically useful OCT acquisition. Therefore, an automatic compensation of movements was implemented into a swept source OCT-laryngoscope. Video and OCT beam path were combined in one tube of 10-mm diameter. Segmented OCT images served as distance sensor and a feedback control adjusted the working distance between 33 and 70 mm by synchronously translating the reference mirror and focusing lens. With this motion compensation, the tissue was properly visible in up to 88% of the acquisition time. During quiet respiration, OCT contrasted epithelium and lamina propria. Mean epithelial thickness was measured to be 109 and [Formula: see text] in female and male, respectively. Furthermore, OCT of mucosal wave movements during phonation enabled estimation of the oscillation frequency and amplitude. Regarding clinical issues, the OCT-laryngoscope with automated working distance adjustment may support the estimation of the depth extent of epithelial lesions and contribute to establish an indication for a biopsy. Moreover, OCT of the vibrating vocal folds provides functional information, possibly giving further insight into mucosal behavior during the vibratory cycle.

[How reliable are non-instrumental assessment tools for dysphagia?]

BACKGROUND

The requirement for otorhinolaryngologists and phoniatricians to diagnose dysphagia and evaluate its extent is on the rise, particularly in light of demographic changes. The gold standards in confirmatory diagnostics are fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and the videofluoroscopic swallowing examination (VFS). Standardized assessments, such as questionnaires or assessments involving probatory swallows are often applied as screening or supportive measures. This article aims to give a critical overview of the assessment tools frequently used in clinical routine. Test quality is assessed, particularly compared to FEES and VFS.

METHODS

A selective literature search using PubMed has been conducted.

RESULTS

On the basis of this lierature search, 48 assessment tools were identified. These can be classified into screening tools, instrument-based tools (implementation standards and evaluation protocols) and questionnaire-based assessment inventories.

DISCUSSION

In order to diagnose and evaluate dysphagia on the basis of assessment critieria, clinicians should be aware of indications for, as well as the advantages, disadvantages and test quality of the assessment tools. Considering the different assessment tools for anamnesis and probatory swallowing, rather low sensitivities and specificities for possible penetration and aspiration are evident. In cases where these symptoms of dysphagia are not evident and reliably assessable, confirmatory assessment via FEES or VFS is essential.

[Normative Data of Pharyngeal and Upper Esophageal Sphincter High Resolution Manometry]

BACKGROUND

High resolution manometry (HRM) can provide information about the muscular contraction of the pharynx and the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and represents an important tool in the diagnostics of dysphagia. To compare the results of swallowing studies interindividually and to identify pathological swallows, normative data are necessary. Normative data for the use of an HRM-probe with a large diameter has already been published. As previously has been shown these probes can influence the normal contraction of the pharynx and the UES. In this study comprehensive normal values are presented for small HRM-probes in diameter (2 mm), that only minimally affect pharyngeal and UES contractions.

METHOD

29 healthy volunteers underwent pharyngeal and upper esophageal HRM. All subjects performed 10 water swallows of 2 ml in an upright position. Pressure and time dependent parameters of the velopharyngeal region, the tongue base and the UES have been evaluated. Mean and median values and different percentile ranges were calculated.

RESULTS

The normative values for the key parameters were (mean±SD): maximum velopharyngeal pressure 269.9±113.1 mmHg, maximum tongue base pressure 278±93.6 mmHg, maximum UES pressure 205.8±64.0 mmHg, UES resting pressure 42.5±18.7 mmHg and relaxation time of the UES 681.6±86.8 ms. Further parameters have been measured.

CONCLUSION

Time dependent values are comparable to those already published. Especially in the UES lower pressures can be measured when a small HRM-probe is used. The normative data established in this study might help to distinguish pathological from physiological swallows using HRM.

[Laryngeal adduction reflex]

BACKGROUND

Laryngeal Adductor Reflex Background: A rapid closure of the vocal folds is necessary, whenever foreign materials or food particles penetrate into the larynx. Otherwise a passage of these particles into the trachea or the lower respiratory tract would be imminent. An aspiration could mechanically block the respiratory tract and cause severe dyspnoea or cause aspiration pneumonia.

METHOD

For this systematic review a selective literature research in PubMed and Scopus using the keywords "laryngeal adductor reflex" and "vocal fold closure" has been carried out.

RESULTS

Apart from the oesophago-glottal and pharyngo-glottal closure reflexes, the laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) has been investigated in particular. The LAR qualifies as a reflectory laryngeal adductor mechanism and involves early, presumably di- or oligosynaptic ipsilateral LAR1 as well as late polysynaptic ipsi- and contralateral LAR2 components. In clinical routine diagnostic settings of dysphagia, LAR is only assessed qualitatively and usually triggered by air pulses or tactile stimulation.

DISCUSSION

Dysphagiologists often find that not only the laryngeal sensibility in general is impaired, but especially the protective laryngeal adduction mechanism, which results in a higher risk of aspiration. Thus, it appears mandatory to test the LAR not only qualitatively but also quantitatively. Unfortunately a valid and reliable method that can be employed in clinical practice has not yet been put forward.

[Inducible laryngeal obstruction vs. bronchial asthma]

Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction vs. Bronchial -Asthma Background: Inducible laryngeal obstructions (ILO) represent paroxysmal and sometimes severe dyspnea caused by different factors. Symptomatically ILO resembles bronchial asthma and is therefore often misdiagnosed. In the following 3 cases regarding a special type of ILO, the exercise induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) will be presented. It will also be demonstrated, how EILO can be diagnosed and differentiated from bronchial asthma.

METHOD

Laryngeal symptoms were provoked by spiroergometry (treadmill or bicycle) and inspected by laryngoscopy.

RESULTS

Symptoms could be provoked in all of the 3 patients by either treadmill or bicycle spiroergometry. When a stridor occurred, usually 1.5-2 min after the anaerobe threshold had been exceeded, spiroergometry showed a decline or plateau of carbon dioxide emission and oxygen intake. Laryngoscopy revealed adduction of the vocal cords during inspiration occa-sionally with a collapse of supraglottic structures towards the endolarynx.

DISCUSSION

This article is the first to report that EILO can be distinctly depicted by spiroergometry. The decline or plateau in oxygen and carbon dioxide curves in coordination with the onset of stridor, approximately 1.5-2 min after the anaerobe threshold had been exceeded, was found to be reproducible in all cases. Furthermore, endoscopy immediately following peak exhaustion represents a practical tool for the identification of EILO.·

A boy with mild mental retardation, mild sensorineural hearing loss and mild facial dysmorphism caused by a 19p13.2 deletion: a case report and review of the literature

The investigation of patients with congenital anomalies and/or intellectual disability with modern genetic methods allows the recognition of an increasing number of cases with these chromosomal rearrangements. Here, we present a mildly mentally retarded boy with mild facial dysmorphism, language development delay, mild sensorineural hearing loss due to a deletion of 1,14 Mb on chromosome 19p 13.2. The deletion was de novo and familial history negative for this disorder. To our knowledge this is the first description of a patient with symptoms mentioned above associated with a 19p13.2-p13.2 deletion.

Impact of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Upper Esophageal Sphincter Dynamics

Objectives:

Beside traditional dysphagia therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been proposed to treat patients with dysphagia. Considering the complexity of the nerve-muscle interaction during swallowing, the underlying physiology of NMES remains unclear. Here, we addressed the question of whether NMES can modify upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dynamics.

Methods:

In a prospective study, 26 healthy volunteers performed water swallows with and without NMES. The stimulus was applied in a participant- and operator-initiated stimulation above, near, and below the motor threshold. Swallowing parameters were measured using high-resolution manometry.

Results:

The UES relaxation time was found to be extended by 10%, indicating a modification in UES dynamics.

Conclusions:

The chosen NMES paradigm influenced the involuntary swallowing phase by extending relaxation time, providing more time for bolus passage into the esophagus. Future studies will have to evaluate if this effect can be found in patients with dysphagia and whether it is beneficial for treatment.

[First language acquisition research and theories of language acquisition]

BACKGROUND

In principle, a child can seemingly easily acquire any given language. First language acquisition follows a certain pattern which to some extent is found to be language independent. Since time immemorial, it has been of interest why children are able to acquire language so easily. Different disciplinary and methodological orientations addressing this question can be identified.

METHODS

A selective literature search in PubMed and Scopus was carried out and relevant monographies were considered.

RESULTS

Different, partially overlapping phases can be distinguished in language acquisition research: whereas in ancient times, deprivation experiments were carried out to discover the "original human language", the era of diary studies began in the mid-19th century. From the mid-1920s onwards, behaviouristic paradigms dominated this field of research; interests were focussed on the determination of normal, average language acquisition. The subsequent linguistic period was strongly influenced by the nativist view of Chomsky and the constructivist concepts of Piaget. Speech comprehension, the role of speech input and the relevance of genetic disposition became the centre of attention. The interactionist concept led to a revival of the convergence theory according to Stern.

DISCUSSION

Each of these four major theories--behaviourism, cognitivism, interactionism and nativism--have given valuable and unique impulses, but no single theory is universally accepted to provide an explanation of all aspects of language acquisition. Moreover, it can be critically questioned whether clinicians consciously refer to one of these theories in daily routine work and whether therapies are then based on this concept. It remains to be seen whether or not new theories of grammar, such as the so-called construction grammar (CxG), will eventually change the general concept of language acquisition.

[Phonation onset and simultaneous activation of non-larynx related muscles]

BACKGROUND

Various voice therapy techniques include not only phonation exercises but also measure to regulate tonus of non-larynx related muscles. This is based on the belief that the use of non-laryngeal muscles may affect laryngeal muscle action during phonation onset und phonation. Here we raised the question if indeed a well defined activation of muscles distant to the larynx may effect phonation onset time and the vibratory cycles following thereafter.

METHOD

Prospective partly randomized single center pilot study with 8 healthy volunteers. Analysed variables were time of phonation onset and closed quotient (Qx) derived via electroglottgraphy. According to a randomization protocol volunteers had to press a training device (  +  condition) or to keep the hand quiet ( - condition).

RESULTS

Comparism of both conditions did not reveal any significant difference, however Qx tended to be higher in the  +  condition.

DISCUSSION

The data presented here does not confirm that activation of hand muscles influences phonation onset time. However the preceding vibratory cycles may be altered towards a higher tone of intralaryngeal muscles regulating vocal fold tension. Further studies including more volunteers or patients with functional voice disorders and protocols employing the activation of other muscle groups are warranted in order to shed more light into the interrelationship between larynx and other muscle activation during phonation.

[Neuromuscular electric stimulation therapy in otorhinolaryngology]

BACKGROUND

Animal experiments have shown that after specific nerve traumatization, neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) can promote nerve regeneration and reduce synkinesia without negatively interfering with normal regeneration processes. NMES is used routinely in physical rehabilitation medicine.

METHODS

This systematic literature search in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the DAHTA database, the Health Technology Assessment Database and MEDLINE or PubMed considered studies on the use of NMES in otorhinolaryngology that have been published in German or English.

RESULTS

The search identified 180 studies. These were evaluated and relevant studies were included in the further evaluation.

DISCUSSION

In the fields of otorhinolaryngology and phoniatry/paediatric audiology, clinical studies investigating the effects of NMES on facial and laryngeal paresis, as well as dysphonia and dysphagia have been carried out. The evidence collected to date is encouraging; particularly for the treatment of certain forms of dysphagia and laryngeal paresis.

Electrical stimulation in treatment of pharyngolaryngeal dysfunctions

OBJECTIVE

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been proposed in the treatment of laryngopharyngeal dysfunctions (dysphonia, dyspnoea, dysphagia) for more than 40 years. Several studies have investigated possible therapeutic effects. Some researchers described favourable results, whereas others did not find relevant benefits. This article aims to review available studies to give an overview regarding the current state of knowledge.

METHODS

We conducted a selective literature search using PubMed.

RESULTS

In total, 356 papers were identified: 6 case reports, 11 reviews, 43 prospective clinical trials and 3 retrospective trials were found.

CONCLUSION

Due to different stimulation protocols, electrode positioning and various underlying pathological conditions, summarizing the present studies appears to be difficult. However, there is evidence that NMES is a valuable adjunct in patients with dysphagia and in patients with vocal fold paresis. Nevertheless, more empirical data is needed to fully understand the benefits provided by NMES. Further research suggestions are put forward.

[Clicking larynx syndrome : a literature review and multiple-case report]

BACKGROUND

A clicking noise in the larynx can probably be provoked in many adults. However, these clicks are not usually associated with pain and physicians are not consulted. The combination of a clicking larynx and pain may severely reduce an individual's quality of life. Up until now, the so-called clicking larynx syndrome (CLS) has not been defined in German teaching literature. Therefore, this article reviews the international literature on CLS and also presents three case reports.

METHODS

A selective literature search using PubMed and Google was conducted. The Google search resulted in the identification of several patient forums. Three case reports are also presented (multiple-case report).

RESULTS

A total of 4 studies were identified in which different kinds of clicking sounds in the larynx were described. These sounds were typically provoked by movements of the head and/or neck, swallowing or circumlaryngeal manipulation. In forums patients reported many different types of laryngeal clicking sounds, which were often described as extremely irritating. Three patients have recently presented with such symptoms at our department.

DISCUSSION

The literature published on CLS suggests (although does not strictly prove) that laryngeal clicking sounds are caused by friction between the superior cornu or the top edge of the thyroid cartilage and the hyoid, or alternatively due to contact of these structure with the cervical spine. Seldom do patients report a former laryngeal trauma. The causes of the associated pain remain unclear. The treatment of choice seems to be resection of the structures associated with the clicking noise by thyroplastic surgery or reduction of the hyoid bone greater horn. It is therefore important to inform patients with mild CLS that these clicking sounds are harmless and to advise CLS patients suffering from pain of the appropriate treatment options.

[A phonation-related phase-model of the velopharyngeal closure based on high resolution manometry]

OBJECTIVE

The production of many speech sounds requires a complete velopharyngeal closure (VPC) caused by muscular contractions and approximation of the pharyngeal walls. The contraction pressure of the muscles involved needs to be high enough to withstand phonation pressure. It is postulated that sustained phonation consists of 3 velopharyngeal phases: an initial pressure buildup, a steady state and a final pressure decrease. To test this hypothesis, phonation induced pressure changes in the VPC were measured in healthy participants.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

High resolution manometry was performed on 8 participants during the sustained phonation of the vowel / i:/. Individual pressure curves have been compared in order to verify the postulated model and intraindividual reproducibility has been tested.

RESULTS

The intraindividual pressure curves were found to be reproducible, but an interindividual variation was observed. An initial pressure increase was detected in all participants at the onset of phonation, followed by a stable phase during sustained phonation. At the offset the pressures returned to the initial value during rest.

CONCLUSIONS

The postulated model was verified in all participants. An initial phase, a stable phase and a terminal phase could be differentiated. Further classifications can be made regarding the on- and offset of phonation allowing for a more detailed characterization of the VPC. Further studies should evaluate if this model is useful to describe changes in the VPC pressure profile of patients affected by rhinophonia.

[Gonosomal trisomy syndrome. Five case reports and review of literature]

Gonosomal trisomies (GT) or so called sex chromosome trisomies (SCTs) are the most common chromosomal abnormalities in humans. The addition of extra X and/or Y chromosomes leads to neurodevelopmental differences, with increased risk for developmental delays, cognitive impairments, executive dysfunction, and behavioural and psychological disorders. Attentional problems, hyperactivity, autistic spectrum disorders and impulsivity are commonly described. Rates of language and communication problems are high in all 3 trisomies. Especially in cases of language impairment ENT specialists may be the main contact to rule out hearing loss. Here, we present 5 patients with SCT. In 2 boys and a young man, SCT was already known (47,XXY; 47,XYY; 47,XYY), in 2 cases we initiated genetic investigation (47,XXX; 47,XXY). Main symptom of the 4 children was a language delay; the young man reported had a history of mild language and motor coordination delay, too. Main complaints of the adult patient were problems with speech-in-noise perception. Furthermore 2 of the patients had mild facial dysmorphic features. The prognosis of the development in patients with SCT is variable, depending on severity of the manifestations and on quality and timing of treatment. Furthermore, in children with motor development/language delay a chromosomal analysis may be initiated at least at the request of the parents to clarify the etiology of developmental abnormalities. If the suspicion of hearing impairment as the cause of problems is not confirmed in a patient, ENT specialists should also consider SCA as a possible cause in the differential diagnosis.

[Methodological aspects of high resolution manometry of the pharynx and upper esophageal sphincter]

BACKGROUND

High resolution manometry (HRM) is used increasingly to investigate muscular functions of the pharynx and the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) during swallowing. Beside the use of different manometry systems and catheters the ways in which parameters are calculated differ greatly among studies. The aim of this study was to present and compare these parameters and show which difficulties need to still be overcome.

METHOD

A selective literature search in PubMed was performed. Only those studies were included which explained in detail how each of the swallowing parameters was obtained. The parameters are presented using our own HRM-data and different ways of evaluation are discussed.

RESULTS

The dynamic opening of the UES, the proceeding of the pressure wave, the functioning of the velopharynx and the tongue base region are of interest when evaluating swallowing function. Minimum and maximum pressures, time intervals, average pressures, pressure gradients, pressure integrals and anatomical parameters are used to describe functioning of these regions.

CONCLUSION

In order to compare the data collected with HRM-systems, it is necessary to consider catheter specifications, the manometry system involved and also how exactly swallowing parameters were evaluated. It would be helpful to include analysis strategies in the producers software in order to make HRM studies comparable. Moreover, a consensus has to be reached regarding study protocols and which parameters should be collected in order to differentiate normal form pathological swallows.

[High-resolution manometry of the upper esophageal sphincter]

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) represents a valuable tool for the evaluation of peristalsis in the oesophagus. Due to the wide spacing of the pressure transducers, however, examination of the upper oesophageal sphincter's relaxation period has not proved satisfactory as yet.

DESIGN

A feasibility study was carried out to clarify whether evaluation of the upper oesophageal sphincter's behaviour during swallows is possible using a catheter with very closely spaced pressure transducers.

SETTING

University hospital.

PROCEDURE

Healthy subjects were analysed using a specially developed catheter as well as a modified software to evaluate whether swallow-associated behaviour could be verified.

RESULTS

Interpreting pressure profiles in terms of resting pressure, residual pressure, relaxation time and maximum peristaltic pressure proved to be feasible. The present analysis supports the existence of distinct dynamic swallow-associated phases, which conform to the phases that had previously been postulated. An additional initial phase, however, should be added.

CONCLUSION

This newly created catheter design in combination with the modified software enable a very detailed evaluation of the sphincter's swallow-associated behaviour and represent a valuable, minimally invasive tool with no exposure to radiation for dysphagia diagnosis as well as treatment planning.

[Use of a chlorhexidine-fuchsin solution for ear, nose and throat diseases]

Castellani's solution can no longer be used for medication due to the critical status of its ingredients. A solution of chlorhexidine and fuchsin is proposed as an alternative. This has good antimicrobial effectiveness and can be used in difficult cases of otitis externa solution for the treatment of cavities after mastoidectomy. The literature indicates that the use of this solution is admissible for selected cases in the field of ear, nose and throat diseases.

[Determination of butane in respiratory gases by means of GC/MS and GC/MS-MS]

Butane is inhaled in order to achieve a pleasurable state of intoxication. An overdose can lead to death. In two deaths from our own investigation material the circumstances were suspicious for the inhalation of liquid gas, and the presence of butane should be demonstrated in the respiratory gases. For detection, a method of ion trap gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and tandem-mass spectrometry (GC/MS-MS) was developed, whereby the gas samples from the lung tissue were directly injected into the GC. The GC/MS tests revealed the presence of butane. Moreover, it was found that during the MS-MS tests reaction products appeared which had formed in the ion trap. Systematic investigations of these reaction products showed that these appeared regularly and could be used as additional backup for the proof of butane. Thus phenomena in the ion trap were used which would not have been expected to occur in normal mass spectrometry or tandem-MS and had not been described in the forensic literature so far. The detected amount of butane could be quantified by means of serial dilutions with nitrogen and room air. The described method shows that small molecules or gases can be demonstrated with the ion trap mass spectrometer.

[The monthly interesting case -- case no. 64. Cavernous hemangioma]

An 89 year old female patient presented with severe epistaxis and nasal congestion on the right side. On endoscopic examination of the nasal cavity a reddish-bluish tumor has been seen that almost completely filled the posterior part of the cavity. In the MRI a highly vasculated tumor was shown. Performing transnasal endoscopic surgery the tumor was completely removed from the nasal cavity. On histopathologic examination the tumor turned out to be a cavernous haemangioma affecting the posterior end of the right turbinate. Cavernous haemangiomas in this region are very rare.