Acoustic pharyngometry: An objective assessment tool for determining pharyngeal airway

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Author Details : Kumar S, Jayan B, Bansal AK

Volume : 3, Issue : 1, Year : 2015

Article Page : 102-108

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Abstract

The interest in studying the upper airway has always been there in orthodontics. Acoustic Pharyngometry is a relatively new technique in this field which measures the upper airway precisely. The technique is based on acoustic reflection technology. Sound waves are projected down the airway and reflected back out in such a way that the Pharyngometry software can analyze and quantify changes in the airway cross sectional area. It is an easy and quick technique that measures patient’s pharyngeal airway size and patency from the oropharyngeal junction to the glottis. The technique is useful in screening of patients having higher risk for sleep disordered breathing, establishing candidacy for mandibular advancement device and accurate bite recording/ titration of the appliance and also for planning surgical intervention. The aim of this article is to sensitize orthodontic professionals about this technique and to discuss the basic procedural methodology along with its clinical usefulness.

Keywords: Acoustic Pharyngometry, Acoustic Reflection, Obstructive sleep apnea

How to cite : Kumar S, Jayan B, Bansal Ak, Acoustic pharyngometry: An objective assessment tool for determining pharyngeal airway. J Dent Spec 2015;3(1):102-108

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