Point-of-Care Ultrasound to Detect Vocal Fold Motion Impairment in Pediatric Patients Using Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate vocal fold motion impairment (VFMI) in children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit who are using noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIV PPV). VFMI can result from surgeries affecting the airway, esophagus, or great vessels and may cause voice problems, feeding difficulties, aspiration risk, and airway issues leading to serious health problems. The study investigates whether point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can reliably detect VFMI compared to the standard fiberoptic nasolaryngoscopy (FNL), which can be risky in pediatric patients. Participants will undergo two ultrasound scans of their vocal folds: one while on NIV PPV and another after being weaned off it. Between these scans, the usual FNL procedure will be performed by the otolaryngology team to assess the vocal fold motion. This observational study focuses on comparing ultrasound results with FNL findings to determine if POCUS is a safe and effective screening tool for VFMI in this setting. During the study, children will have their vocal folds examined using ultrasound and FNL as part of their care. Researchers will compare these results to measure VFMI presence over a two-year period. The study will monitor the safety and accuracy of ultrasound as a non-invasive method, aiming to reduce the risks associated with FNL. Participants will be followed up to assess outcomes related to vocal fold motion impairment, with the entire process integrated into their clinical treatment timeline.

Detection of Vocal Fold Motion Impairment on Noninvasive Positive Pressure