Lateral cephalometric radiograph versus lateral nasopharyngeal radiograph for quantitative evaluation of nasopharyngeal airway space.

OBJECTIVE

This study compared lateral radiographs of the nasopharynx (LN) and lateral cephalometric radiographs (LC) used to assess nasopharyngeal airway space in children.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

One examiner measured the nasopharyngeal space of 15 oral breathing patients aged between 5 and 11 years old by using LN and LC. Both assessments were made twice with a 15-day interval in between. Intergroup comparison was performed with t-tests (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Comparison between LN and LC measurements showed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Lateral cephalometric radiograph is an acceptable method used to assess nasopharyngeal airway space.