Abstract
Objectives
Previous research has demonstrated pharyngeal size and constriction differences between normal young and elderly adults. Evidence suggests that the pharynx of elderly subjects dilates and does not constrict as well as younger persons. The distance between the larynx and the hyoid at rest is greater in the elderly, as is the anterior-posterior width of the pharynx maximally expanded. We have noticed that the pharynx of elderly persons appears to atrophy with age. The purpose of this investigation was to compare pharyngeal wall thickness in young vs. elderly persons.
Methods
Videofluoroscopic swallow studies were performed on 82 normal adults under the age of 65 years and on 89 normal adults over the age of 65. Measures of posterior pharyngeal wall thickness (PWT) were determined at rest and at the same point during maximum constriction of the pharynx on a 20-cc bolus swallow. Data were compared with the independent samples t-test.
Results
No gender differences were identified for the younger or elderly groups. Mean PWT at rest was .40cm (± .08) for the younger group and 30cm (± .08) for the elderly (p <0.01). Pharyngeal wall thickness measured at the same point during maximum constriction was 1.08cm (±38) for the younger group and .92cm (±36) for the elderly (p <0.01).
Conclusions
Data from the current study suggest that the posterior pharyngeal wall is thinner in elderly individuals older than 65 as compared to younger adults. These differences may help explain differences in pharyngeal strength, swallowing efficiency, and safety in the elderly.
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