Nova análise das vias aéreas superiores através de radiografias Panorâmicas: correlacionando seus locais de estreitamento, fluxo respiratório e de dor Orofacial

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of closed-mouth panoramic radiographs for visualization of soft tissues and airflow resistance of upper airways, especially the pharynx (naso, velo, oro, and hipopharynx regions). This study analyzed 65 adult individuals (54 of the feminine gender and 11 of the masculine gender), 45 with orofacial pain and 20 with no symptoms. Parameters were stablished using a new radiographic analysis for evaluation of the potentially obstructive soft tissues in the airways from the nasal cavity to the lungs. The influence of orofacial pain on the respiratory airflow was investigated. These parameters were correlated to the presence and level of the airway obstruction (VA), using forced oscillation technique or oscillometry were measured by the nose and mouth. The Angle’s classes previously determined on the clinical way were verified. The results demonstrated that the closed-mouth panoramic radiographs can be used to soft tissues visualization and initial investigation of airways, mostly at nasopharynx and oropharynx, their potentially obstructive sites, nasal cavity, symmetry between right and left sides of these structures. The analysis of the results also demonstrated, as a specific objective, that the closed-mouth panoramic radiographs could be used easily to the confirmation of the Angle's clinical classification. The closed mouth panoramic radiography showed an advantage of maxillar and mandibular bilateral visualization, instead of the right and left sides overlapping as it occurs in the usually used cephalometric radiography. The closed mouth panoramic radiography showed an advantage of maxillar and mandibular bilateral visualization, instead of the right and left sides overlapping as it occurs in the usually used cephalometric radiography. The orofacial pain did not influence the upper airways