Evaluation of embouchure dysfunction: Experience of 139 patients at a single center.

Abstract

Our aims are to 1) illustrate the complexity and phenomenological richness of the embouchure; 2) delineate the main clinical features of non-dystonic embouchure problems (NED) versus embouchure dystonia (ED); and 3) provide a practical framework for physicians who may encounter a patient with embouchure dysfunction. We performed retrospective chart and video review and report 139 instrumentalists with embouchure dysfunction evaluated over a 15-year period. Included in this group are 109 ED patients (20 newly reported and 89 previously published) and 30 NED patients. Non-dystonic embouchure problems included the overuse syndrome, infraorbital neuropathy, and orbicularis oris tears, among others. Based on this experience, the largest series presented to date, we propose a practical guide to help evaluate patients with embouchure dysfunction in the office. 4. Laryngoscope, 126:1327-1333, 2016.