Pediatric normative data for the KayPENTAX phonatory aerodynamic system model 6600

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Voice Science
• Aerodynamic Assessment
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Accurate interpretation of phonatory aerodynamic measures in children requires age- and gender-specific normative data.
• The KayPENTAX Phonatory Aerodynamic System (PAS) is a valuable tool, but pediatric normative data are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a preliminary pediatric normative database for the KayPENTAX Phonatory Aerodynamic System (PAS) Model 6600.
• To determine if PAS data are influenced by age and gender in children.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection from 60 children (30 males, 30 females) aged 6-17 years, divided into three age groups.
• Five PAS protocols were administered to collect 45 phonatory aerodynamic measures.
• Data were analyzed for age and gender dependencies.

Main Results:

• Thirteen of 45 PAS parameters showed statistically significant differences based on age and/or gender.
• Significant age-gender interactions were observed for mean pitch.
• Specific parameters like expiratory volume and airflow demonstrated significant differences across age groups and between genders.

Conclusions:

• Age and gender significantly influence several phonatory aerodynamic parameters in children.
• These developmental differences are critical for interpreting PAS data in pediatric populations.
• Findings highlight the need for age- and gender-adjusted normative values for precise clinical assessment.