Evaluation of upper oesophageal sphincter in unilateral vocal fold paralysis

Objective To evaluate dysphagia and manometric changes in the upper oesophageal sphincter in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Methods Thirty patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis due to vagal nerve paralysis scheduled for evaluation were enrolled in the study group; 24 healthy subjects were included in the control group. Upper oesophageal sphincter basal and residual pressure, relaxation time, and pharyngeal pressure values were evaluated by manometry. All patients completed the Turkish Eating Assessment Tool 10 questionnaire, the MD Anderson dysphagia questionnaire and the reflux symptom index form. Results Swallowing assessment questionnaires and reflux symptom index results were significantly higher in the study group. Upper oesophageal sphincter basal and relaxation pressures were lower in the study group. Upper oesophageal sphincter relaxation time was shorter in the study group, but pressure values recorded from the pharynx were higher. Conclusion Upper oesophageal sphincter manometric pressure was lower in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis. A hypotonic sphincter likely contributes to dysphagia and aspiration.