후두 결절에서 후-인두역류 양상

Background and Objectives: Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) is believed to be an important etiologic factor in the development of many inflammatory and neoplastic disorders of the upper aerodigestive tract. But there have not been well-documented that vocal cord nodules are related with reflux. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between vocal cord nodules and LPR as causative factor. Materials and Methods: Prospectively, Fifteen patients with vocal cord nodules and ten healthy volunteers were studied. Prior to therapy including laryngeal microsurgery, each group underwent esophageal manometry and ambulatory 24hour double probe pH monitoring. Pharyngeal acid reflux event was deemed acceptable if a decrease in pH below 4 was recorded in all two esophageal and pharyngeal probe. Total reflux score, percent acid exposure time and average acid clearance time were measured and compared between two groups. Results: Eleven of the 15 patients (73.3%) had the reflux in pharyngeal probe. Three of the 10 controls s (30%) had the reflux. Total reflux score and percent acid exposure time were significantly higher in patients than in control group but average acid clearance time was not significantly different between two groups. Conclusion: Prevalence of pharyngeal acid reflux events is significantly higher in patients with vocal cord nodules. LPR may be a risk factor for the development of vocal cord nodules. (J Clinical Otolaryngol 2000;11:237–240)