Effect of Short-Term Endotracheal Intubation on Vocal Function

단기간 기관지 삽관후의 음성의 변화

Background and Objectives : To assess the role of altered vocal function in transient voice change after short-term endotracheal intubation, we evaluated acoustic parameters, aerodynamic parameters, and laryngoscopic characteristics preoperatively and postoperatively. Materials and Methods : Vocal function of 10 patients undergoing tympanoplasty and mastoidectomy using general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation were studied preoperatively, at 1day and 7 days after extubation. Acoustic analysis, aerodynamic study, and telescopic examination were used to assess vocal function. Results : In acoustic parameters, there was no significant difference between preoperative and postoperative measures. However, in subglottic pressure, ere was a significant decrease at 1 day after extubation and this change was return to preoperative value at 7 days after extubation. MPT(Maximal Phonation Time), MER(Mean flow Ratio), and VC(Vital Capacity) were decreased 1 day after extubation but did not show statistically significant change. Three of 10 patients manifested a vocal fold edema and injection 1 day after extubation. Conclusions : Subglottic pressure revealed a significant decrease at 1 day after extubation. And this change was correlated with laryngeal morphologic change and decrement in pulmonary function.