Rinsho Shinkeigaku (Clinical Neurology)

Case Report

Effect of aspiration prevention surgery in three patients with multiple system atrophy who have been hospitalized for aspiration pneumonia

Eiichi Taguchi, M.D., Ph.D.1), Yasushi Kobayashi, M.D., Ph.D.2) and Hidenori Tsuzuki, M.D., Ph.D.3)

1) Department of Neurology, Aoizaitaku Clinic
2) Department of Neurology, Okazaki City Hospital
3) Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Okazaki City Hospital

Three patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA) who have been hospitalized for aspiration pneumonia underwent aspiration prevention surgery. Laryngeal closure was performed in 2 cases, and laryngotracheal separation was performed in 1 case. Two patients were able to continue oral intake. No recurrence of aspiration pneumonia was observed in all cases after the operation for about two years, and the reduction in the number of aspirations at night improved the patient's QOL and reduced the burden on the caregiver. It was considered that the appropriate time for surgery was when communication in vocal language became difficult. It was a time when the loss of vocal function was well accepted in 3 cases. Aspiration prevention surgery may be a useful treatment option because it may contribute to prolonging the prognosis of life by reducing the complications of respiratory infections.
Full Text of this Article in Japanese PDF (2417K)

(CLINICA NEUROL, 62: 621|626, 2022)
key words: aspiration pneumonia, multiple system atrophy, aspiration prevention surgery, laryngotracheal separation, sudden death

(Received: 16-Dec-21)