IngentaConnect Laryngopharyngeal reflux: monitoring technique and normal values

Authors: Smit¹; Mathus-Vliegen¹; Devriese¹; Tan¹; Brandsen¹; Schouwenburg¹

Source: Clinical Otolaryngology & Allied Sciences, Volume 23, Number 2, April 1998 , pp. 187-187(1)

Abstract:

Objective. In order to evaluate the laryngopharyngeal reflex (LPR) an ambulatory 24-h double-probe pH monitor without the use of manometry was needed and normal values of LPR had to be established.

Materials and methods. In 20 healthy volunteers oesophageal manometry was performed, followed by ambulatory 24-h double-probe pH monitoring with the proximal probe positioned under endoscopic control in the upper oesophageal sphincter (UOS).

Results. Manometry confirmed the correct endoscopic placement of the proximal pH-probe in the UOS. The number of reflux episodes at the level of the UOS varied from 0 to 3 in nearly all subjects. The mean reflux episode frequency, during the 24-h monitoring, was 1.8 (95% confidence limit (CL): 0.06-3.54). For the percentage of time of pH below 4, we found a mean of 0.01% (95% CL 0-0.02) of the total time, 0.02% (95% CL 0-0.04) of the time in the upright position and 0.0% of the time in the supine position.

Conclusion. Endoscopic placement of the proximal probe in the UOS, without the need of manometry, is a reliable method for 24-h pH monitoring. In healthy subjects there is hardly any acid exposure at the level of the UOS.

Keywords: audiometry; otosclerosis; second ear; stapedectomy

Document Type: Abstract

DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2273.1998.0119g.x

Affiliations: 1: Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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