Analysis of the pharynx and the trachea by the acoustic reflection method in children: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• The acoustic reflection method (ARM) analyzes acoustic wave reflections.
• Assessing upper airway dimensions in children is crucial for diagnosing respiratory conditions.
• Identifying reliable anthropometric predictors for upper airway size is important.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of the acoustic reflection method (ARM) in healthy children.
• To determine anthropometric parameters correlated with the minimum cross-sectional area (MCAv) of the upper airways in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• The study included fifty-nine healthy children aged 2 to 18 years.
• The acoustic reflection method (ARM) was employed to measure upper airway dimensions.
• Statistical analysis, including stepwise multiple regression, was used to identify correlations.

Main Results:

• The mean MCAv values showed an increasing trend across different age groups.
• MCAv values demonstrated significant correlations with height, age, and weight.
• Height was the sole significant predictor of MCAv in stepwise multiple regression analysis (r=0.59, p<0.0001).

Conclusions:

• The acoustic reflection method (ARM) is a feasible technique for analyzing upper airways in children aged two years and older.
• Upper airway minimum cross-sectional area (MCAv) increases with height during childhood.
• Height is a key anthropometric determinant of upper airway size in children.