Relationship Between Nasal Function and Lung Function in Adults with Cleft lip and Palate and Dentofacial Deformity

Abstract

Objective

To verify the relationship between nasal function, nasal patency, respiratory mode, and type and lung function through lung capacity in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP).

Project

Quantitative and cross-sectional clinical research.

Context

Tertiary-level craniofacial hospital.

Participants

Thirty patients between 18 and 30 years old with repaired CLP and presence of dentofacial deformity were evaluated.

Interventions

The respiratory mode and type were determined through perceptive assessment and obtaining respiratory symptoms, through a self-reported questionnaire. Spirometry and rhinomanometry were applied.

Main outcome measures

Forced vital capacity and peak forced expiratory flow.

Results

It was identified that the respiratory mode directly influences peak expiratory flow (PEF) values, as well as the presence of respiratory disease. Forced vital capacity (FVC) showed a statistically significant relationship (p = .036), decreasing its values with the presence of self-reported nasal obstruction. By rhinomanometry, an average of 0.537 (±140 cm²) was obtained for nasal cross-sectional area values, with only 7.69% of cases with values below 0.400 cm², suggesting nasal obstruction.

Conclusion

There is a relationship between nasal and pulmonary function in patients with CLP, with regard to the respiratory mode, presence of respiratory disease and self-reported nasal obstruction, influencing lung capacity values such as FVC and PEF.