Panoramic radiographs for visualization of upper airway narrowing

Abstract

Objective: The study evaluated the utilization of closed-mouth panoramic radiographies (PR) to the visualization of soft tissues of upper airways, from nasopharynx to oropharynx. The symmetry of sides, and narrowing sites were also evaluated. We established parameters for evaluation of the potentially obstructive soft tissues in the upper airways.Material and Methods:This study analyzed PR of 65 subjects (54 women and 11 men). We used closed-mouth panoramic radiographies to visualize the structures from the nasal cavity to the hypopharynx region, including upper and lower jaws, UA and soft palate. Results: The UA panoramic view, taken by the right and left sides proved to be advantageous, since it facilitated the detection of possible irregularities and asymmetry in these airways. The narrowest sites were seen in velopharynx (near to the oropharynx). The maximum and minimum distance measured at nasopharynx level were 44.8 mm and 17.3 mm; and at velopharynx level were 22.2 mm and 1.4 mm, respectively. The length of the soft palate ranged from 78.3 mm to 31.4 mm. Conclusion: It has been shown that PR can be a useful exam to preliminary investigation of narrowing sites of UA, and to suggest if the patient requests additional exams.