Diagnosis of nasal airway obstruction

The Use of Rhinomanometry in Mouth Breathing: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Introduction  Mouth breathing generates imbalances in the musculature, in craniofacial morphofunctionality, and in the stomatognathic system. Therefore, it is essential to make a diagnosis of mouth breathing through the quantitative assessment of nasal permeability, which can be performed through rhinomanometry. Objective  To investigate the effectiveness of rhinomanometry in the diagnosis of mouth breathing in pediatric patients through a systematic review of the literature. Data synthesis  The guiding question was: "Is the use of rhinomanometry as an assessment tool effective in the diagnosis of mouth breathing in pediatric patients?". We conducted a search on the following databases: Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information (BIREME), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), PubMed/Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Web of Science, and Science Direct. The Health Sciences Descriptors (Descritores em Ciências da Saúde, DECS, in Portuguese) and Medical Subjects Headings (MESH) were combined with the Boolean operator AND in the search strategy: rhinomanometry AND mouth breathing AND diagnosis AND nasal pressure AND nasal airflow AND nasal resistance . Observational cohort and cross-sectional studies that addressed the effectiveness of rhinomanometry in the diagnosis of mouth breathing were included. The reviewers independently extracted the information and scored the review quality based on the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale and the grading of evidence levels according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Of the 1,536 articles identified, only 3 were selected for the present review after the application of the eligibility criteria. Conclusion  There is great concern regarding the assessment of nasal function. There was a lack of standardization of rhinomanometry to test the effectiveness of nasal resistance as an aid in the diagnosis of breathing mode.

Nasal Obstruction: Overview of Pathophysiology and Presentation of a Clinically Relevant Preoperative Plan for Rhino(Septo)plasty

Impairment of nasal breathing is a highly prevalent and bothersome symptom that affects daily functioning and/or sleep quality. Those surgeons dealing with patients seeking rhinoplasty need to carefully analyze the preoperative nasal breathing capacity and predict the positive or even negative impact of rhino(septo)plasty on nasal breathing. Given the lack of correlation between the subjective feeling of suboptimal nasal breathing and the objective measurements of nasal flow and nasal resistance, a critical and mainly clinical evaluation of all anatomical, mucosal, and sensory mechanisms involved in nasal obstruction is mandatory. Indeed, thermo-, mechano-, and chemosensory receptors on the nasal mucosa, airflow, and respiratory dynamics might all contribute to the overall perception of nasal breathing capacity. In this review, we provide an overview of the factors determining suboptimal nasal breathing including different diagnostic and experimental tests that can be performed to evaluate nasal flow and nasal resistance and current limitations in our understanding of the problem of nasal breathing in an individual patient. An algorithm for the preoperative or diagnostic workup for nasal obstruction is included that might be useful as a guide for clinicians dealing with patients seeking nose surgery.

An adjoint-based approach for the surgical correction of nasal septal deviations

Deviations of the septal wall are widespread anatomic anomalies of the human nose; they vary significantly in shape and location, and often cause the obstruction of the nasal airways. When severe, septal deviations need to be surgically corrected by ear-nose-throat (ENT) specialists. Septoplasty, however, has a low success rate, owing to the lack of suitable standardized clinical tools for assessing type and severity of obstructions, and for surgery planning. Moreover, the restoration of a perfectly straight septal wall is often impossible and possibly unnecessary. This paper introduces a procedure, based on advanced patient-specific Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, to support ENT surgeons in septoplasty planning. The method hinges upon the theory of adjoint-based optimization, and minimizes a cost function that indirectly accounts for viscous losses. A sensitivity map is computed on the mucosal wall to provide the surgeon with a simple quantification of how much tissue removal at each location would contribute to easing the obstruction. The optimization procedure is applied to three representative nasal anatomies, reconstructed from CT scans of patients affected by complex septal deviations. The computed sensitivity consistently identifies all the anomalies correctly. Virtual surgery, i.e. morphing of the anatomies according to the computed sensitivity, confirms that the characteristics of the nasal airflow improve significantly after small anatomy changes derived from adjoint-based optimization.

Updates in Butterfly Graft Technique

Nasal obstruction is a significant challenge greatly affecting individual quality of life. It is one of the most common presentations in the otolaryngology clinic, often persisting despite medical and, at times, surgical intervention. The butterfly graft has proven to be a veritable option addressing nasal valve collapse. Herein, we describe our most recent operative technique, highlight its application in ethnic rhinoplasty and revision cases, and discuss incorporation of dorsal preservation techniques in functional rhinoplasty.

The Assessment of External Nasal Valve Efficiency After Le Fort I Surgery

BACKGROUND

The present study investigated how external nasal valve function is affected after Le Fort I osteotomy using external nasal valve efficiency (ENVE) index.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients who underwent Le Fort I osteotomy with or without mandibular osteotomy were included in the retrospective study. Preoperative and postoperative standardized videos of basal view of the nose during breathing were recorded, and 2 screenshots were taken, 1 in the resting position and the other after deep inspiration. External nasal valve efficiency was calculated at preoperative and postoperative periods for each patient.

RESULTS

Of the 21 patients, 12 were women and 9 were men (mean age, 26.63 ± 8.20 years). The mean ENVE index was 0.75 ± 0.16 for the preoperative period and 0.82 ± 0.17 for the postoperative period. There was a significant difference between these values ( P = 0.002). When the correlation of the ENVE with maxillary movements was analyzed, the ENVE was negatively affected by maxillary impaction ( P = 0.011, r = -0.540).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings imply that Le Fort I osteotomy positively affects the ENVE index. However, because of the antagonistic relation between maxillary impaction and ENVE, higher maxillary impaction amounts or isolated maxillary impaction should be carefully planned in patients with low ENVE index.

Temperature-controlled radiofrequency device treatment of septal swell bodies for nasal airway obstruction: An open-label, single arm multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Nasal airway obstruction (NAO) is a highly prevalent disorder. Septal swell body (SSB) hypertrophy is an often overlooked contributor to NAO. SSB treatment may relieve symptoms of NAO. The objective of this study was to assess the clinical use of a temperature-controlled radiofrequency (TCRF) device to treat SSBs to improve symptoms in adults with NAO.

METHODS

In this prospective, multicenter, open-label, single arm study, patients with severe or extreme NAO related to SSB hypertrophy received bilateral TCRF treatment in the SSB area. The primary endpoint was improvement in Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) Scale scores from baseline to 3 months postprocedure. A subset of study patients underwent computed tomography (CT) imaging to evaluate posttreatment changes in SSB size.

RESULTS

Mean NOSE Scale scores significantly improved from 73.5 (SD 14.2) at baseline to 27.9 (SD 17.2) at 3 months postprocedure, a reduction of -45.3 (SD 21.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -50.4 to -40.1; p < 0.0001); the responder rate was 95.7% (95% CI: 0.88 to 0.99; p < 0.0001). CT evaluation at 3 months showed statistically significant reductions in the SSB with the greatest reduction in the middle thickness (mean change -3.4 [SD 1.8] mL, 95% CI: -4.0 to -2.8; p < 0.0001). Minimal adverse events with any relationship to the device or procedure were reported; none were serious in nature and no septal perforations occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that TCRF treatment of SSB hypertrophy is well tolerated and effective at reducing both SSB size and symptoms of NAO at 3 months posttreatment.

Prevalence and Identification of Nasal Airway Obstruction in Patients Presenting to Otolaryngology Clinics: Results From a Large Descriptive Practice Survey

Objective: Determine the prevalence of nasal airway obstruction (NAO) in patients presenting to general otolaryngology clinics using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Scale (NOSE) score as a screening tool. Study Design: The clinic staff at 149 otolaryngology specialty clinics geographically distributed in the United States administered the NOSE Scale assessment to 3533 patients presenting to the clinics over a period of 1 week, regardless of the reason for the visit. All patients completed the NOSE Scale score, and additional data were collected, including the primary reason for the visit. Demographic and patient characteristics were summarized using frequencies and percentages for categorical variables. Results: The overall mean NOSE Scale score for the 3533 patients surveyed was 37.6 (SD 31.5). A total of 37.4% (1320/3533) of surveyed patients, regardless of visit reason, had severe/extreme NAO symptoms. Overall, the most common visit reason category was "Other" (61.2%, 2162/3533), followed by "NAO" (22.6%, 798/3533) and "Sinus" (16.2%, 573/3533). The mean NOSE scores for patients in each of the visit categories were 23.4 (SD 25.9), 64.7 (SD 23.3), and 53.3 (SD 28.1); for "Other," "NAO," and "Sinus," respectively. Among the patients coming in with "NAO" or "Sinus" as a primary complaint, 76.2% (608/798) and 57.2.% (328/573) had severe or extreme NOSE scores. A total of 17.8% (384/2162) of patients coming in for "Other" reasons had NOSE scores indicating severe/extreme NAO symptoms. Conclusions: The findings of this large, descriptive otolaryngology practice survey found a high prevalence of moderate to severe/extreme NAO among patients presenting to otolaryngology practices. Incorporating assessments, such as the NOSE Scale score and other diagnostic practices into the patient intake workflow and assessments, could help identify symptomatic NAO patients that might otherwise be overlooked.

Functional nasal surgery in the office-based setting

Objective

Nasal obstruction is a very common problem often addressed by functional nasal surgery. Increasingly, these procedures are being performed in the office setting secondary to decreased down time, cost, and obviation of general anesthesia. Our goal with this review is to discuss how to appropriately select patients for office-based procedures, what procedures may be considered, and current outcomes with in-office functional nasal surgery.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar.

Methods

Research databases were searched for articles discussing techniques for performing functional nasal surgery in an office setting, and outcomes of various in-office functional nasal procedures.

Results

Studies found and included in this review discuss many aspects of office-based functional nasal surgery, including practical points on patient selection and office set-up, what procedures can safely be performed, and outcomes of different techniques to address specific problems. Broadly, procedures amenable to performance in the office address the internal and external nasal valves, the nasal septum, and the inferior turbinates.

Conclusion

A wide range of techniques to aaddress the nasal valves, septum, and inferior turbinates can be performed in a safe and effective manner without the need for an operative suite.

Quantification of pharyngeal airway space changes after two-jaw orthognathic surgery in skeletal class III patients

BACKGROUND

Skeletal class III malocclusion is a common dentofacial deformity. Orthognathic treatment changes the position of the jaws and affects the shape of the upper airway to some extent. The aim of this study was to use multislice spiral computer tomography data and orthognathic knowledge to quantify the relationship between the amount of surgical movement of the maxilla or mandible in all three spatial planes and the changes in airway volume that occurred.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 50 patients was conducted. Preoperative and postoperative linear changes related to skeletal movements of the maxilla and mandible were measured and compared to changes in the most constricted axial level (MCA) and its anteroposterior (MCA-AP) and transverse diameters (MCA-TV). Correlation tests and linear regression analysis were performed.

RESULTS

Significant interactions were observed between the anterior vertical movement of the maxilla and the MCA-AP. The anteroposterior movement distance of the mandible was significantly correlated with changes in the oropharyngeal, velopharyngeal, total airway volume, MCA, MCA-AP, and MCA-TV. The change in the mandibular plane angle was significantly correlated with the change in velopharyngeal volume, total airway volume (nasopharynx, oropharynx, velopharynx), and MCA. The linear regression model showed that oropharyngeal volume decreased by 350.04 mm³, velopharyngeal volume decreased by 311.50 mm³, total airway volume decreased by 790.46 mm³, MCA decreased by 10.96 mm² and MCA-AP decreased by 0.73 mm² when point B was setback by 1 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Anteroposterior mandibular control is the key to successful airway management in all patients. This study provides estimates of volume change per millimeter of setback to guide surgeons in treatment planning.

Primary nasosinus meningioma, an etiology masks another: Case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Extracranial meningiomas of the sinonasal tract are rare tumors. The diagnosis is not generally evident. We report, through an observation, the clinical particularities, the diagnostic difficulties and the therapeutic approach of primary sinonasal meningiomas.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented with complaints of right nasal obstruction with the notion of recurrent epistaxis evolving for one year. At the examination, nasal endoscopy found a voluminous purplish-gray mass filling both the middle meatus and the olfactory cleft. The CT examination showed an ethmoïdonasal tumoral process extending to orbital cavity and infratemporal fossa without endocranial extension. A transnasal approach was performed, histopathological examination demonstrates a méningothélial meningioma rank1. The clinical, endoscopic and CT controls did not show tumor residue or a local recurrence.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Meningioma is a common non-glial intracranial neoplasm. Primary or secondary extracranial meningioma (depending on whether they are isolated or associated with an intracranial tumor) location is uncommon, clinical presentation is nonspecific. Diagnostic confirmation is anatomopathological with immunohistochemically study. Imaging confirms the primary nature of these tumors. The prognosis is favorable after complete surgical excision without further adjuvant treatment.

CONCLUSION

Primary nasosinus meningiomas are rare, with non-specific symtomatology and common with other local pathologies. Imaging confirms the primary character of these tumors, anatomopathological examination completed by immunohistochemical study confirms the diagnosis. Surgery with complete exeresis remains the best option with a good prognosis.

Improvements in airflow characteristics and effect on the NOSE score after septoturbinoplasty: A computational fluid dynamics analysis

Septoturbinoplasty is a surgical procedure that can improve nasal congestion symptoms in patients with nasal septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy. However, it is unclear which physical domains of nasal airflow after septoturbinoplasty are related to symptomatic improvement. This work employs computational fluid dynamics modeling to identify the physical variables and domains associated with symptomatic improvement. Sixteen numerical models were generated using eight patients' pre- and postoperative computed tomography scans. Changes in unilateral nasal resistance, surface heat flux, relative humidity, and air temperature and their correlations with improvement in the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score were analyzed. The NOSE score significantly improved after septoturbinoplasty, from 14.4 ± 3.6 to 4.0 ± 4.2 (p < 0.001). The surgery not only increased the airflow partition on the more obstructed side (MOS) from 31.6 ± 9.6 to 41.9 ± 4.7% (p = 0.043), but also reduced the unilateral nasal resistance in the MOS from 0.200 ± 0.095 to 0.066 ± 0.055 Pa/(mL·s) (p = 0.004). Improvement in the NOSE score correlated significantly with the reduction in unilateral nasal resistance in the preoperative MOS (r = 0.81). Also, improvement in the NOSE score correlated better with the increase in surface heat flux in the preoperative MOS region from the nasal valve to the choanae (r = 0.87) than in the vestibule area (r = 0.63). Therefore, unilateral nasal resistance and mucous cooling in the preoperative MOS can explain the perceived improvement in symptoms after septoturbinoplasty. Moreover, the physical domain between the nasal valve and the choanae might be more relevant to patient-reported patency than the vestibule area.

The Impact of Adhesions on Nasal Airflow: A Quantitative Analysis Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Background

Nasal adhesions (NAs) are a known complication of nasal airway surgery. Even minor NAs can lead to significant postoperative nasal airway obstruction (NAO). Division of such NAs often provides much greater relief than anticipated.

Objective

We examine the impact of NAs at various anatomical sites on nasal airflow and mucosal cooling using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and multiple test subjects.

Methods

CT scans of healthy adult subjects were used to construct three-dimensional nasal airway computational models. A single virtual 2.5 mm diameter NA was placed at one of five sites commonly seen following NAO surgery within each nasal cavity bilaterally, resulting in 10 NA models and 1 NA-free control for each subject. CFD analysis was performed on each NA model and compared with the subject's NA-free control model.

Results

4 subjects were recruited to create 44 computational models. The NAs caused the airflow streamlines to separate, leading to a statistically significant increase in mucosal temperature immediately downstream to the NAs (wake region). Changes in the mucosal temperature in the wake region of the NAs were most prominent in anteriorly located NAs with a mean increase of 1.62 °C for the anterior inferior turbinate NAs ( P < .001) and 0.63 °C for the internal valve NAs ( P < .001).

Conclusion

NAs result in marked disruption to airflow patterns and reduced mucosal cooling on critical surfaces, particularly in the wake region. Reduced wake region mucosal cooling may be a contributing factor to the exaggerated perception of nasal obstruction experienced by patients with NAs.

Update of endoscopic classification system of adenoid hypertrophy based on clinical experience on 7621 children

Introduction

Nasal endoscopy is likely to be the method of choice to evaluate nasal obstruction and adenoid hypertrophy (AH) in children given its excellent diagnostic accuracy and low risk for the patient. The aim of this study was to update the previous classification of AH to guide physicians in choosing the best therapeutic option.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective observational study including 7621 children (3565 females; mean age 5.92; range: 3-14 years) who were managed for adenoid hypertrophy at our institution between 2003 and 2018. All patients were initially treated with medical therapy and then with surgery if not adequately controlled. We performed a specific analysis based on the presence or absence of comorbidities.

Results

In 1845 (24.21%) patients, adenoid obstruction was classified as Grade I when the fiberoptic endoscopy showed adenoid tissue occupying < 25% of choanal space. In 2829 of 7621 (37.12%) patients, the adenoid tissue was scored as Grade II since it was confined to the upper half of nasopharynx, with sufficiently pervious choana and visualisation of tube ostium. In 1611 of 7621 (21.14%) cases, adenoid vegetation occupied about 75% of the nasopharynx with partial involvement of tube ostium and considerable obstruction of choanal openings, and was classified as Grade III. Finally, 1336 of 7621 (17.53%) patients were scored as Grade IV due to complete obstruction with adenoid tissue reaching the lower choanal border without allowing the visualisation of the tube ostium. Based on resolution of symptoms in Grade III obstruction after medical therapy (that was mostly seen in patients without comorbidities), we divided patients in two subclasses: Grade IIIA was not associated with comorbidities, while Grade IIIB was correlated with important comorbidities.

Conclusions

These results can be useful to guide medical or surgical therapeutic intervention. In patients with class IIIB AH, surgical treatment offered adequate control not only of nasal symptoms but also of associated comorbidities.

Using Health Concept Surveying to Elicit Usable Evidence: Case Studies of a Novel Evaluation Methodology

BACKGROUND

Developers, designers, and researchers use rapid prototyping methods to project the adoption and acceptability of their health intervention technology (HIT) before the technology becomes mature enough to be deployed. Although these methods are useful for gathering feedback that advances the development of HITs, they rarely provide usable evidence that can contribute to our broader understanding of HITs.

OBJECTIVE

In this research, we aim to develop and demonstrate a variation of vignette testing that supports developers and designers in evaluating early-stage HIT designs while generating usable evidence for the broader research community.

METHODS

We proposed a method called health concept surveying for untangling the causal relationships that people develop around conceptual HITs. In health concept surveying, investigators gather reactions to design concepts through a scenario-based survey instrument. As the investigator manipulates characteristics related to their HIT, the survey instrument also measures proximal cognitive factors according to a health behavior change model to project how HIT design decisions may affect the adoption and acceptability of an HIT. Responses to the survey instrument were analyzed using path analysis to untangle the causal effects of these factors on the outcome variables.

RESULTS

We demonstrated health concept surveying in 3 case studies of sensor-based health-screening apps. Our first study (N=54) showed that a wait time incentive could influence more people to go see a dermatologist after a positive test for skin cancer. Our second study (N=54), evaluating a similar application design, showed that although visual explanations of algorithmic decisions could increase participant trust in negative test results, the trust would not have been enough to affect people's decision-making. Our third study (N=263) showed that people might prioritize test specificity or sensitivity depending on the nature of the medical condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Beyond the findings from our 3 case studies, our research uses the framing of the Health Belief Model to elicit and understand the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may affect the adoption and acceptability of an HIT without having to build a working prototype. We have made our survey instrument publicly available so that others can leverage it for their own investigations.

Airflow Considerations and the Effect of Webster's Triangle in Reduction Rhinoplasty

BACKGROUND

Reduction rhinoplasties, regardless of the methods used (structural or preservation), can cause a reduction in the internal nasal volume, which may lead to breathing problems. In 1977, Webster proposed preserving a little triangle in the beginning of the lower lateral osteotomy line to prevent breathing problem. However, its importance is still controversial.

OBJECTIVES

and methods: This prospective randomized controlled study (level of evidence 1) included 46 patients without nasal breathing problem. High-to-low (Webster's triangle preservation) osteotomy (control group, n = 23) and low-to-low osteotomy (study group, n = 23) were performed. All operations were performed according to the proposed volumetric rhinoplasty steps (examination/measurement, prevention and treatment). Nasal obstruction symptom evaluation (NOSE) test, visual analog scale, acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry, peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF), and three-dimensional measurements were performed in all patients. Breathing tests were repeated before and 6 months after surgery with and without xylometazoline administration.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference in NOSE and visual analog scale scores was found between the two groups. Acoustic rhinometry, PNIF, and rhinomanometry findings showed no statistically significant breathing difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In reduction rhinoplasties, a decrease in the internal volume may be expected as directly proportional with the reduction amount. The decrease in the internal volume may create nasal breathing problems. To prevent it, nasal airflow should be adjusted according to new anatomy. In this study, we discussed "volumetric rhinoplasty" steps to prevent breathing problems in reduction rhinoplasty. Following these steps, not preserving Webster's triangle (low-to-low osteotomy) has no effect on the nasal airway.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The Effectiveness of Skeletal Reconstruction in Severe Post-Rhinoplasty Nasal Deformity

BACKGROUND

Revision rhinoplasty in patients with multiple prior surgeries is among the most challenging procedures in facial plastic surgery. Evaluating patient satisfaction in this unique patient population is important in determining which technique is effective.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of total nasal skeletal reconstruction in patients with severe post-rhinoplasty deformity due to multiple previous revision surgeries.

METHODS

A retrospective medical record analysis of ambulatory surgery and hospital databases was performed relating to rhinoplasty patients between April 2014 and December 2018. Patient demographics, surgical technique, and functional and aesthetic outcome assessment data were retrieved. Patients' functional satisfaction was measured with the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) instrument, and the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) instrument was used to evaluate cosmetic results.

RESULTS

A total of 253 revision rhinoplasties were extracted. Of these, 25 patients were revision cases with total skeletal reconstruction. The patients had undergone a mean of 3.2 previous rhinoplasties. Mean [standard deviation] preoperative ROE and NOSE scores were 6.36 [3.69] and 80.33 [12.02], respectively. Septum, tip, dorsum, and side walls were reconstructed in all cases. The mean postoperative ROE and NOSE scores after 1 year were 17.27 [4.67] and 53.33 [19.80], respectively, which represented a statistically significant improvement (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Having the knowledge and experience to perform total nasal skeletal reconstruction by rebuilding an unsalvageable nose leads to long-standing satisfactory functional and aesthetic results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Quantifying Upper Airway Changes Following Mandibular Orthognathic Surgery

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to quantify upper airway changes following mandibular orthognathic surgery. Treatment records of 50 patients who underwent mandibular orthognathic surgery were divided into 2 groups, that is, Group 1: Cases treated with Mandibular Advancement Surgery and Group 2: Cases treated with Mandibular Setback Surgery with 25 patients in each group. The Lateral Cephalogram and Acoustic Pharyngometry records of both groups were studied at T0 (01 week before surgery) and T1 (01 year postsurgery) for changes in linear airway measurements (Nasopharyngeal Airway Space - NAS, Superior Airway Space - SAS, Posterior Airway Space - PAS and Hypopharyngeal Airway Space (HAS)), hyoid bone position (Mandibular Plane Hyoid distance), mean area and mean volume. The percentage change and change in these parameters per millimeter advancement or setback of mandible at T1 was calculated. A significant increase in linear airway parameters (SAS and PAS); decrease in hyoid distance; and increase in volume and area of upper airway was observed at T1 in Group 1 and reverse was observed in Group 2. The change in airway parameters (SAS, PAS, mean volume and area) was more significant in Group 1 as compared to Group 2. In the current airway centric approach, meticulous assessment and prediction of long-term airway changes post surgery should be an integral part of ortho-surgical diagnosis and treatment planning and suitable modifications in the treatment plan must be made to cater for any potential adverse effects on airway.

Elimination of nasal obstruction improves pulmonary functions and oxygenation

Background

Nasal obstruction is a significant medical problem. This study aimed to examine the effect of nasal obstruction and nasal packing on arterial blood gases and pulmonary function indices, and the impact of the elimination of nasal obstruction on preoperative values.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 26.6 ± 10.1 years, males represented 50.8%. Spirometric indices showed statistically significant improvement (preoperative forced expiratory volume in 1st second 66.9 ± 13.9 vs 79.6 ± 14.9 postoperative and preoperative forced vital capacity 65.5 ± 12.7 vs 80.4 ± 13.8 postoperative). Oxygen saturation was significantly lower during nasal packing (95.6 ± 1.6 preoperative vs 94.7 ± 2.8 with nasal pack), and significant improvement (97.2 ± 1.4) was observed after removal of the nasal pack. Nasal obstruction scores significantly improved.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that either simple nasal obstruction or nasal packing may cause hypoxemia and abnormalities in lung function tests. Hypoxemia was more evident with nasal packing.

The impact of nasal adhesions on airflow and mucosal cooling - A computational fluid dynamics analysis

Nasal adhesions are a known postoperative complication following surgical procedures for nasal airway obstruction (NAO); and are a common cause of surgical failure, with patients often reporting significant NAO, despite relatively minor adhesion size. Division of such nasal adhesions often provides much greater relief than anticipated, based on the minimal reduction in cross-sectional area associated with the adhesion. The available literature regarding nasal adhesions provides little evidence examining their quantitative and qualitative effects on nasal airflow using objective measures. This study examined the impact of nasal adhesions at various anatomical sites on nasal airflow and mucosal cooling using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). A high-resolution CT scan of the paranasal sinuses of a 25-year-old, healthy female patient was segmented to create a three-dimensional nasal airway model. Virtual nasal adhesions of 2.5 mm diameter were added to various locations within the nasal cavity, representing common sites seen following NAO surgery. A series of models with single adhesions were created. CFD analysis was performed on each model and compared with a baseline no-adhesion model, comparing airflow and heat and mass transfer. The nasal adhesions resulted in no significant change in bulk airflow patterns through the nasal cavity. However, significant changes were observed in local airflow and mucosal cooling around and immediately downstream to the nasal adhesions. These were most evident with anterior nasal adhesions at the internal valve and anterior inferior turbinate. Postoperative nasal adhesions create local airflow disruption, resulting in reduced local mucosal cooling on critical surfaces, explaining the exaggerated perception of nasal obstruction. In particular, anteriorly located adhesions created greater disruption to local airflow and mucosal cooling, explaining their associated greater subjective sensation of obstruction.

True and Average Internal Nasal Valve Area in Septorhinoplasty: Radiological and Clinical Outcomes

The internal nasal valve provides most of the upper airway resistance; therefore, many surgical techniques have been developed to reconstruct and widen this sensitive area of the nasal airway. Twenty patients participated in this study to compare the effects of 2 techniques (spreader grafts and modified spreader flap) on the true valve area and the average valve area after rhinoplasty according to standard axial computed tomography on admission and 6 months following the surgery. The mean follow-up time was 10.2 months. After rhinoplasty, the average valve area increased in all patients who underwent the spreader graft or modified spreader flap techniques. The preoperative average valve areas for patients undergoing the spreader graft and spreader flap techniques were (37.10 ± 16.45 mm) and (36.86 ± 10.56 mm), respectively, whereas the postoperative results were (48.58 ± 12.85 mm) for those who underwent the spreader graft technique and (56.22 ± 19.06 mm) for those who underwent the modified spreader flap technique. Both techniques resulted in significant radiological and clinical improvement with a good correlation between the subjective and objective tests. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Impact of Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty Versus Dorsal Hump Resection on the Internal Nasal Valve: a Quantitative Radiological Study

BACKGROUND

This study evaluates the impact of different hump takedown techniques, namely the conventional hump resection with midvault reconstruction, the push-down (PD) and the let-down (LD) procedures, on the INV dimensions.

METHODS

In this cadaveric study, six heads were divided randomly into either the conventional hump resection technique (Group A; n = 6 sides) or DPR techniques (n = 6 sides). This latter group was subdivided such that initially a PD procedure was performed (Group B; n = 6 sides), followed by a LD procedure on the same heads (Group C; n = 6 sides). A validated radiological method was used to measure the INV angle and cross-sectional area (CSA) in a modified coronal plane both pre- and post-procedurally.

RESULTS

Group A did not show significant reduction in the INV angle nor in CSA (p = 0.068 and p = 0.156, respectively). In the push-down group (B), we observed a mean change of 2.05° in the angles and 0.3 cm² in the CSA (p = 0.0163 and p < 0.001, respectively). The LD group (C) did not show significant reduction in the INV angle nor in CSA (p = 0.437 and p = 0.331, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Neither the conventional hump resection nor the LD DPR technique reduced the INV dimensions. However, the PD preservation technique significantly reduced the INV dimensions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Utility of endoscopic anatomical optical coherence tomography in functional rhinoplasty

Objective measurement of the nasal valve region is valuable for the assessment of functional rhinoplasty surgical outcomes. Anatomical optical coherence tomography (aOCT) is an imaging modality that may be used to obtain real-time, quantitative, and volumetric scans of the nasal airway. We aim to evaluate if volumetric aOCT imaging is useful for the examination of the nasal valve region before and after functional rhinoplasty procedures. aOCT scans of the nasal valves were performed on four cadaveric heads before and after spreader graft and butterfly graft procedures. The resulting aOCT images were compared against video endoscopy images, and the segmented volumes of the nasal airway obtained from aOCT scans were compared with computed tomography (CT) derived volumes acquired under the same conditions. The aOCT-derived volumes match the CT volumes closely, with a mean Dice similarity coefficient of 0.88 and a mean Hausdorff distance of 2.3 mm. Furthermore, the aOCT images were found to represent the shape of the nasal cavity accurately. Due to its ability to perform real-time, quantitative, and accurate evaluation of the nasal airway, aOCT imaging is a promising modality for the objective assessment of the nasal valves before and after functional rhinoplasty procedures.

Review: The role of computational simulation in understanding the postoperative sinonasal environment

Nasal surgery improves symptoms in a majority of patients for whom medical treatment has failed. In rhinosinusitis patients, endoscopic sinus surgery aims to alleviate obstruction and re-establish mucociliary clearance. Surgery alters the structure-function relationship within the nasal passage, which is difficult to assess clinically. Computational modelling has been used to investigate this relationship by simulating air flow and environmental variables inside realistic three-dimensional models of the human nasal airway but many questions remain unanswered and need further investigation. The application of computational models to improve pre-surgical planning and post-surgical treatment may not be currently possible due to the absence of knowledge correlating the model-predicted parameters to physiological variables. Links between these parameters to patient outcomes are yet to be established. This article reviews the recent application of computational modelling to understand the nasal structure-function relationship following surgery in patients with sinusitis and nasal obstruction.

Functional relevance of computational fluid dynamics in the field of nasal obstruction: A literature review

BACKGROUND

Nasal airway obstruction (nasal obstruction) is a common symptom affecting the quality of life of patients. It can be estimated by patient perception or physical measurements. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be used to analyse nasal ventilation modalities. There is a lack of comparative studies investigating the correlations between CFD variables and patient perception or physical measurements.

OBJECTIVE OF THE REVIEW

Our goal was to define correlations between CFD variables and patient perception and physical measurements. We also aimed to identify the most reliable CFD variable (heat flux, WSS, total pressure, temperature…) characterising nasal breathing perception.

TYPE OF REVIEW

Systematic literature review using PRISMA guidelines.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The selected studies were obtained from the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) online database, MEDLINE (Ovid), Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library using a combination of MeSH terms (nose, paranasal sinus, fluid dynamics, rhinology) and non-MeSH terms (CFD, nasal airway, nasal airflow, numerical, nasal symptoms). Studies that did not incorporate objective or subjective clinical assessment were excluded.

EVALUATION METHOD

We compared all results obtained by authors regarding CFD variables and assessment of nasal airway obstruction (clinical or physical).

RESULTS

To compare nasal obstruction with CFD variables, most authors use CFD-calculated nasal resistances, airflow, heat flux, wall shear stress, total pressure, velocities and streamlines. We found that heat flux appears to be the CFD variable most closely correlated with patient perception. Total pressure, wall shear stress and velocities are also useful and show good correlations. Correlations between CFD-calculated nasal resistances and patient perception are stronger after correction of the nasal cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

The growing number of CFD studies on the nose has led to a better understanding of nasal obstruction. The clinical interpretation of previously unknown data, such as WSS and heat flux, is opening up new horizons in the understanding of this symptom. Heat fluxes are among the best CFD values correlated with patient perception. More studies need to be performed including temperature and humidity exchanges.

Normative ranges of nasal airflow variables in healthy adults

PURPOSE

Virtual surgery planning based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of nasal airflow has the potential to improve surgical outcomes for patients with nasal airway obstruction (NAO). Virtual surgery planning requires normative ranges of airflow variables, but few studies to date have quantified inter-individual variability of nasal airflow among healthy subjects. This study reports CFD simulations of nasal airflow in 47 healthy adults.

METHODS

Anatomically accurate three-dimensional nasal models were reconstructed from cone beam computed tomography scans and used for steady-state inspiratory airflow simulations with a bilateral flowrate of 250 ml/s. Normal subjective sensation of nasal patency was confirmed using the nasal obstruction symptom evaluation and visual analog scale. Healthy ranges for several CFD variables known to correlate with subjective nasal patency were computed, including unilateral airflow, nasal resistance, airspace minimal cross-sectional area (mCSA), heat flux (HF), and surface area stimulated by mucosal cooling (defined as the area where HF > 50 W/m²). The normative ranges were targeted to contain 95% of the healthy population and computed using a nonparametric method based on order statistics.

RESULTS

A wide range of inter-individual variability in nasal airflow was observed among healthy subjects. Unilateral airflow varied from 60 to 191 ml/s, airflow partitioning ranged from 23.8 to 76.2%, and unilateral mCSA varied from 0.24 to 1.21 cm². These ranges are in good agreement with rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry data from the literature. A key innovation of this study are the normative ranges of flow variables associated with mucosal cooling, which recent research suggests is the primary physiological mechanism of nasal airflow sensation. Unilateral HF ranged from 94 to 281 W/m², while the surface area stimulated by cooling ranged from 27.4 to 64.3 cm².

CONCLUSIONS

These normative ranges may serve as targets in future virtual surgery planning for patients with NAO.

Review: The role of computational simulation in understanding the postoperative sinonasal environment

Nasal surgery improves symptoms in a majority of patients for whom medical treatment has failed. In rhinosinusitis patients, endoscopic sinus surgery aims to alleviate obstruction and re-establish mucociliary clearance. Surgery alters the structure-function relationship within the nasal passage, which is difficult to assess clinically. Computational modelling has been used to investigate this relationship by simulating air flow and environmental variables inside realistic three-dimensional models of the human nasal airway but many questions remain unanswered and need further investigation. The application of computational models to improve pre-surgical planning and post-surgical treatment may not be currently possible due to the absence of knowledge correlating the model-predicted parameters to physiological variables. Links between these parameters to patient outcomes are yet to be established. This article reviews the recent application of computational modelling to understand the nasal structure-function relationship following surgery in patients with sinusitis and nasal obstruction.

Impact of Distraction Osteogenesis Maxillary Expansion on the Internal Nasal Valve in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of distraction osteogenesis maxillary expansion (DOME) on objective parameters of the internal nasal valve and correlate findings with subjective outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

After Institutional Review Board approval, included subjects were those with obstructive sleep apnea, had undergone DOME from September 2014 to April 2018, and had cone beam computed tomography scans available before and after expansion. Measurement of the internal nasal valve parameters was performed with Invivo6 Software (version 6.0.3). Interrater reliability of all pre- and postexpansion parameters was measured. Patient-reported outcome measures included the Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness Scale (NOSE) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores, and correlation between objective and subjective outcomes were evaluated by Spearman correlation analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty-two subjects met inclusion criteria. All showed significant improvement in their subjective outcomes as well as an increase in their internal valve parameters. Significant correlation was observed between increased angles and improvement in postexpansion NOSE score (right angle, P = .024; left angle, P = .029).

CONCLUSION

DOME widens the internal nasal valve objectively (dimensions), which correlates significantly with subjective improvement (NOSE scores).

In-office treatment of nasal valve obstruction using a novel, bipolar radiofrequency device

Objectives

To assess the safety and effectiveness of in‐office bipolar radiofrequency treatment of nasal valve obstruction

Study Design

Prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter case series

Methods

Adult patients with a Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation scale (NOSE) score ≥60 were selected. Patients were clinically diagnosed with dynamic or static internal nasal valve obstruction as primary or significant contributor to obstruction and were required to have a positive response to nasal mechanical dilators or lateralization maneuvers. Bilateral radio‐frequency treatment was applied intranasally using a novel device, under local anesthesia in a single session. Safety and tolerance were assessed by event reporting, inspection, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain. Efficacy was determined using the NOSE score and patient‐reported satisfaction survey at 26 weeks.

Results

Fifty patients were treated. No device or procedure‐related serious adverse events occurred. Soreness, edema, and crusting resolved by 1 month. The mean baseline NOSE score was 79.9 (SD 10.8, range 60–100), and all had severe or extreme obstruction. At 26 weeks, mean NOSE score was 69% lower at 24.7 (P < .0001) with 95% two‐sided confidence intervals 48.5 to 61.1 for decrease. The decrease in NOSE score did not differ significantly between patients who did or did not have prior nasal surgery. Patient satisfaction mean by survey was 8.2 of 10.

Conclusion

In office treatment of internal nasal valve obstruction using a bipolar radiofrequency device is safe and well‐tolerated. Nasal obstruction, as assessed using the NOSE questionnaire at 26 weeks, was markedly improved with high patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence

2b, prospective cohort

A hierarchical stepwise approach to evaluate nasal patency after virtual surgery for nasal airway obstruction

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in medicine and expenditures associated in treatment of nasal airway obstruction, 25-50% of patients undergoing nasal surgeries complain of persistent obstructive symptoms. Our objective is to develop a "stepwise virtual surgery" method that optimizes surgical outcomes for treatment of nasal airway obstruction.

METHODS

Pre-surgery radiographic images of two subjects with nasal airway obstruction were imported into Mimics imaging software package for three-dimension reconstruction of the airway. A hierarchical stepwise approach was used to create seven virtual surgery nasal models comprising individual (inferior turbinectomy or septoplasty) procedures and combined inferior turbinectomy and septoplasty procedures via digital modifications of each subject's pre-surgery nasal model. To evaluate the effects of these procedures on nasal patency, computational fluid dynamics modeling was used to perform steady-state laminar inspiratory airflow and heat transfer simulations in every model, at resting breathing. Airflow-related variables were calculated for virtual surgery models and compared with dataset containing results of healthy subjects with no symptoms of nasal obstruction.

FINDINGS

For Subject 1, nasal models with virtual septoplasty only and virtual septoplasty plus inferior turbinectomy on less obstructed side were within the healthy reference thresholds on both sides of the nasal cavity and across all three computed variables. For Subject 2, virtual septoplasty plus inferior turbinectomy on less obstructed side model produced the best result.

INTERPRETATION

The hierarchical stepwise approach implemented in this preliminary report demonstrates computational fluid dynamics modeling ability to evaluate the efficiency of different surgical procedures for nasal obstruction in restoring nasal patency to normative level.

Validation of a septoplasty deformity grading system for the evaluation of nasal obstruction

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

We developed and validated a septal deformity grading (SDG) system that accounts for anatomic location and grading of deformity severity.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Subjects were patients with nasal obstruction presenting to University of California, Irvine Medical Center. Subjects were given pre- and postoperative Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) questionnaires and were evaluated by a facial plastic surgeon using our septal deformity grading (SDG) system. Validity and reliability analyses were conducted on the SDG results. Statistical analyses were conducted on SDG and NOSE data to assess and compare instruments, and to validate the SDG instrument using the NOSE instrument.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-five patients met inclusion criteria. Cronbach's α was ≥ 0.7 for SDG and pre- and postoperative NOSE scores. There was a significant difference in pre- and postoperative NOSE scores (Z score = -7.21, P < .001). Correlations between postoperative NOSE and SDG scores were significant (P = .014), and convergent construct validity was achieved. There was a significant difference in SDG scores between primary versus revision operations (P < .001), history versus no history of nasal trauma, and nasal/septal surgery (P = .025, P = .003, respectively). The odds of having a revision operation were 2.3 times higher for high SDG scores (P < .001), of having a history of nasal trauma were 1.33 times higher for high SDG scores (P = .014), and of having a history of nasal/septal surgery were 2.9 times higher for low SDG scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Our SDG system addresses the challenge of providing objective anatomic information on the severity of nasal septal deformities, and may be valuable when used in conjunction with subjective data gathered from the NOSE questionnaire.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 129:586-593, 2019.

Nasal Obstruction Considerations in Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Cosmetic rhinoplasty is an increasingly popular procedure in the United States. There are critical aspects of preoperative planning and intraoperative execution that facilitate successful rhinoplasty. Thorough preoperative assessment of the structures comprising the internal and external nasal valves and identification of potential at-risk areas for static or dynamic compromise must be done before surgery. Thoughtful maneuvers and meticulous surgical technique must be used. Postoperative counseling ranges from simple reassurance to medical therapy to procedural efforts to alleviate a patient's concerns. It is important to establish rapport with the patient and dutifully address all cosmetic and functional concerns.

Measuring Nasal Obstruction Outcomes

Methods of measuring nasal obstruction outcomes include both objective anatomic and physiologic measurements, as well as subjective patient-reported measures. Anatomic measurements include acoustic rhinometry, imaging studies, and clinician-derived examination findings. Physiologic measures include rhinomanometry, nasal peak inspiratory flow, and computational fluid dynamics. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are self-reported assessments of disease-specific quality-of-life outcomes. Several studies attempted correlation of these outcome measures; however, few show strong correlation. Expert opinion favors determining successful surgical outcomes using PROMs. This review provides a summary of current nasal obstruction outcome measures.

Nasal Airway Obstruction: Prevalence and Anatomic Contributors

Surgical treatments for nasal airway obstruction (NAO) are commonly offered as part of otolaryngology practice. Anatomic causes include septal deviation, inferior turbinate hypertrophy, and nasal valve collapse (NVC). This study was performed to determine the prevalence of anatomic contributors to NAO. A total of 1,906 patients with sinonasal complaints were surveyed by 50 otolaryngologists in varying U.S. geographic regions. Patients were first evaluated using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) instrument to assess the NAO symptoms and their severity. Physicians then examined patients for the presence of the three anatomic contributors. Presence of septal deviation and turbinate hypertrophy was assessed through an internal nasal exam with direct or endoscopic visualization based on the physician's standard methodology for diagnosis. Presence of NVC was determined by the modified Cottle maneuver. Among all patients surveyed, prevalence was 67% for NVC, 76% for septal deviation, and 72% for inferior turbinate hypertrophy. We found that 64% of the patients (n = 1,211) had severe/extreme NOSE scores (≥55), representing the most likely nasal obstruction candidates for intervention. In these patients, the prevalence of NVC, septal deviation, and inferior turbinate hypertrophy was 73, 80, and 77%, respectively. Eighty-two percent of the 236 patients with severe/extreme NOSE scores who reported prior septoplasty and/or inferior turbinate reduction had NVC. Our study revealed a comparable prevalence of all three anatomic contributors across all patients and the subset with severe/extreme NOSE scores, highlighting the importance of evaluating the lateral nasal wall as a component of NAO treatment strategy.

Improving the rhinomanometry technique using benzoin tincture

OBJECTIVE

In order to achieve a faster and more reliable anterior rhinomanometric evaluation, nasal skin was prepared using benzoin tincture solution, which provides simpler and better adhesion of the foam tape to the nasal skin.

METHOD

Two consecutive anterior rhinomanometry measurements were made, one with and one without benzoin tincture application.

RESULTS

The average time taken to perform classic foam tape anterior rhinomanometry without benzoin tincture application was 281.32 seconds, and the average coefficients of variation for the right and left passages were 7.48 and 7.59 per cent, respectively. When benzoin tincture was used, the average time taken for completion of the tests was 121.24 seconds, and the average coefficients of variation for the right and left passages were 2.17 and 2.32 per cent.

CONCLUSION

The use of benzoin tincture to clean the nasal skin before placing foam tape shortens the procedure duration and significantly increases test reliability.

Transcutaneous Columellar Strut for Correcting Caudal Nasal Septal Deviation

Correction of caudal septal deviation is a challenging issue because of its significant role in tip support mechanisms. Some interventions especially aggressive resection of caudal septum to correct deviation, may compromise external nasal valve, tip ptosis and persistence of nasal obstruction. Many surgical techniques have been suggested to correct this type of nasal septal deviation. This study presents a technique to correct caudal septal deviation without weakening of tip support mechanisms. To evaluate the efficacy of insertion of a transcutaneous columellar strut during correction of caudal septal deviation. The study was performed in patients complaining from nasal obstruction with caudal septal deviation. After intranasal incision and elevation of mucoperichondrial flap, Caudal septum released from anterior nasal spine (ANS) and a band of cartilage removed from inferior and caudal part of septum and septum again fixed to ANS. Through a vertical transcutaneous incision, a cartilaginous strut is placed in columella, between medial crurae. Preoperative and postoperative NOSE score determined and photographs were taken. In 14 patients we performed this technique, the postoperative NOSE score showed significant improvement, (p = 0.001). Nasal breathing improved in all patients without any complication or tip ptosis or worsening of nasal appearance. This septoplasty technique along with placement of transcolumellar strut, is an easy, efficient and complication free method for simultaneously correction of caudal deviation of nasal septum, reinforcing external nasal valve and prevents tip ptosis.

Pre- and post-operative application of acoustic rhinometry in children with otitis media with effusion and with or without adenoid hypertrophy-a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

There is no standardized scheme for preoperative evaluation of adenoid hypertrophy or a consensus on surgical indications for adenoidectomy in children with otitis media with effusion (OME), especially for young children intolerant to nasal endoscopic assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and reliability of acoustic rhinometry (AR) in evaluating benefits from adenoidectomy in children with OME.

METHOD

Children with OME who were scheduled for surgical intervention were reviewed and AR tests performed preoperatively and postoperatively. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical strategy (Group I: tympanostomy tube placement alone; Group II: tympanostomy tube placement plus adenoidectomy). Correlation and regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between findings of AR and nasal endoscopy. AR parameters including minimal nasal cross-sectional area (MCA), and nasopharyngeal volume (NPV), as well as scores of subjective symptoms were obtained to evaluate the utility of AR pre- and post-surgery.

RESULTS

Sixty-five children aged 4-10 years who met the inclusion criteria were included. No significant differences in gender or age distribution were observed between Group I and Group II. MCA, as well as NPV significantly decreased in Group II when compared with Group I (p = 0.000). A significant inverse correlation was observed between NPV and choanal obstruction ratio in both groups I (r = -0.625, p < 0.001) and II (r = -0.570, p < 0.001). A significant difference between preoperative and postoperative NPV and subjective symptom scores was observed in group II after adenoidectomy (p = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

AR parameters showed a good clinical correlation with findings of nasal endoscopy and thus may be useful for evaluating candidacy for surgical adenoidectomy among children with OME, especially in whom preoperative nasal endoscopic examination is not feasible. Additionally, AR can reveal the changes occurring within the nasopharyngeal passage before and after adenoidectomy.

A UK survey of current ENT practice in the assessment of nasal patency

BACKGROUND

Nasal obstruction is a common ENT complaint; however, decisions on its management are challenging, with high rates of dissatisfaction following surgery. This study investigated the practice of UK clinicians in the evaluation of nasal patency.

METHOD

Seventy-eight UK-based rhinologists were surveyed at the 2015 British Academic Conference in Otolaryngology.

RESULTS

Clinical history and examination are almost universally used to evaluate nasal blockage. The most commonly used test was the nasal misting pattern (73 per cent), followed by peak nasal inspiratory flow (19 per cent). The Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 or 23 was utilised by 29 per cent of respondents. Sixty-three per cent of respondents reported that a lack of equipment was the principle reason for not using objective measures, followed by time constraints and a lack of correlation with symptom scores.

CONCLUSION

British clinicians rely on clinical skills to evaluate nasal blockage. There is a desire for a simple, non-invasive device that objectively measures airflow for nasal breathing during physiological resting and correlates with subjective symptom scores.

Two-dimensional assessment of the nasal valve area cannot predict minimum cross-sectional area or airflow resistance

BACKGROUND

Clinicians who manage nasal obstruction often comment on the shape and size of the nasal valve (NV) area. However, correlation of the symptoms of obstruction, nasal airflow dynamics, and the endoscopic appearance of the anatomic cross-sectional area of the NV is poorly understood. Endoscopic imaging and calculation of the NV area is investigated as a tool for either clinical or research use.

OBJECTIVE

To describe and evaluate a two-dimensional measurement of the minimum cross-sectional area (MCA) of the NV by using endoscopic imaging.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of patients with symptoms of nasal obstruction who were undergoing nasal assessment was performed. The NV was measured with digital imaging taken from the endoscopy. Adobe Photoshop was used to calculate the digital MCA of the NV based on pixel count and a reference marker placed in the image field. Airway parameters were assessed by using a nasal obstruction visual analog scale, nasal airway resistance via rhinomanometry, and acoustic rhinometry derived MCA (acoustic MCA). Correlation of the digital MCA and airway parameters was made and interobserver correlation of the MCA measures was calculated.

RESULTS

Thirty-three nasal airways were assessed: mean (standard deviation) digital MCA (0.28 ± 0.13 cm(2)) and mean (standard deviation) acoustic MCA (0.51 ± 0.15 cm(2)). Correlation of the digital MCA with visual analog scale was poor (Pearson r = 0.10, p = 0.56). Similar finding between digital and acoustic MCA was poor (Pearson r = 0.50, p = 0.56, respectively) despite a moderately strong interobserver correlation for the digital MCA (Pearson r = 0.79, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Qualitative endoscopic assessment of the NV may help clinicians predict NV dysfunction but simple two-dimensional measures seemed to be of limited value in accurately assessing the three-dimensional NV quantitatively.

Outcome of Nasal Valve Obstruction After Functional and Aesthetic-Functional Rhinoplasty

INTRODUCTION

Nasal valve insufficiency is distinct from other anatomic causes of nasal obstruction. Functional rhinoplasty refers to the collective techniques used to reconstruct the lateral nasal wall, typically achieved with the use of spreader and alar grafts. Patients undergoing functional rhinoplasty can also have aesthetic desires and goals achievable with combined aesthetic-functional rhinoplasty.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the improvement in nasal obstruction symptoms after cartilage graft reconstruction in patients with nasal valve insufficiency and to compare the postoperative improvement between patients undergoing functional and aesthetic-functional rhinoplasty.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

In this prospective multicenter cohort study, 12 participating surgeons enrolled 79 consecutive patients diagnosed as having nasal valve insufficiency as the primary cause of nasal obstruction. Patients underwent functional or aesthetic-functional rhinoplasty. The study collected demographic, clinical, and surgical data from March 2006 to September 2008. Nasal symptoms were evaluated using a validated, disease-specific, quality-of-life instrument. The Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale was administered to participants at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Follow-up was completed on September 2008, and data were analyzed in September 2009 and in September 2013.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Changes in NOSE scale score (range, 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating greater severity of obstruction) at 3 months between the functional and aesthetic-functional groups.

RESULTS

Of the 79 patients, 31 underwent functional and 48 underwent aesthetic-functional rhinoplasty. Overall, an improvement was found in nasal breathing, with a mean decrease of 48.6 points (95% CI, 41.9-55.2; P < .001) at the 3-month assessment compared with the preoperative baseline NOSE scale score (mean [SD], 67.1 [19.7]). The improvement in nasal breathing was similar whether patients underwent functional or aesthetic-functional rhinoplasty (mean [95% CI] NOSE scale score change, 51.4 [42.1-60.7] and 46.6 [37.1-56.1], respectively; P = .49).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Nasal valve reconstruction with spreader and alar grafts is effective in treating patients with nasal valve insufficiency. Combining aesthetic interventions with functional rhinoplasty did not seem to affect the magnitude of improvement in nasal breathing outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

The relationship between nasal resistance to airflow and the airspace minimal cross-sectional area

The relationship between nasal resistance (R) and airspace minimal cross-sectional area (mCSA) remains unclear. After the introduction of acoustic rhinometry, many otolaryngologists believed that mCSA measurements would correlate with subjective perception of nasal airway obstruction (NAO), and thus could provide an objective measure of nasal patency to guide therapy. However, multiple studies reported a low correlation between mCSA and subjective nasal patency, and between mCSA and R. This apparent lack of correlation between nasal form and function has been a long-standing enigma in the field of rhinology. Here we propose that nasal resistance is described by the Bernoulli Obstruction Theory. This theory predicts two flow regimes. For mCSA>Acrit, the constriction is not too severe and there is not a tight coupling between R and mCSA. In contrast, when mCSAAcrit (estimated to be 0.37cm(2)), this theory suggests that airway constrictions are rarely an exclusive contributor to nasal resistance, which may explain the weak correlation between mCSA and subjective nasal patency.

The Evaluation of Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Nasal Geometry Using Objective and Subjective Methods

INTRODUCTION

It is known that obesity causes obstructive sleep apnea syndrome by increasing upper airway resistance. Also, obese patients are admitted to the ear, nose, and throat clinic very often because of nasal obstruction complaint. The aim of this study is to identify the change and relation among body mass index (BMI), nasal resistance, reduction in nasal ariflow, nasal anatomy, and patients' subjective complaints.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A total of 67 patients admitted to our clinic between August 2013 and January 2014 were included in the study.The study group comprised 33 patients who had a chief complaint-nasal obstruction and the other group consisted of 34 patients who had no complaint and nasal pathology. Both the groups were checked with acoustic rhinometry (AR), active anterior rhinomanometer, nasal obstruction symptom evaluation (NOSE), and visual analog study (VAS) questionnaire.

RESULTS

There is a significant statistical correlation between the body mass increase and VAS and NOSE score increase (P < 0.05). But the authors did not find any statistically significant relation between BMI and total inspiratory and expiratory MR and MF measured by anterior active rhinomanometer and left and right nasal cavity MCA, and volume measured by acoustic rhinometery (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to belief, obesity does not change the nasal resistance, airflow, and anatomy but it can cause subjective nasal complaints.

Characterization of postoperative changes in nasal airflow using a cadaveric computational fluid dynamics model: supporting the internal nasal valve

IMPORTANCE

Collapse or compromise of the internal nasal valve (INV) results in symptomatic nasal obstruction; thus, various surgical maneuvers are designed to support the INV.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect on nasal airflow after various surgical techniques focused at the level of the INV and lateral nasal sidewall.

DESIGN AND SETTING

A fresh cadaver head was obtained and underwent suture and cartilage graft techniques directed at the level of the INV using an external approach. Preoperative and postoperative digital nasal models were created from the high-resolution, fine-cut, computed tomographic imaging after each intervention. Isolating the interventions to the level of the INV, we used computational fluid dynamic techniques to calculate nasal resistance, nasal airflow, and nasal airflow partitioning for each intervention.

INTERVENTION

Suture and cartilage graft techniques.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Nasal airflow, nasal resistance, and partitioning of airflow.

RESULTS

Using the soft-tissue elevation model as baseline, computational fluid dynamic analysis predicted that most of the suture and cartilage graft techniques directed toward the nasal valve improved nasal airflow and partitioning while reducing nasal resistance. Specifically, medial and modified flare suture techniques alone improved nasal airflow by 16.9% and 15.1%, respectively. The combination of spreader grafts and modified flare suture improved nasal airflow by 13.2%, whereas spreader grafts alone only improved airflow by 5.9%. The largest improvements in bilateral nasal resistance were achieved using the medial and modified flare sutures, outperforming the combination of spreader grafts and modified flare suture.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Techniques directed at supporting the INV have tremendous value in the treatment of nasal obstruction. The use of flare sutures alone can address dynamic valve collapse or upper lateral cartilage incompetence without gross disruption of the nasal architecture. Using computational fluid dynamic techniques, this study suggests that flare sutures alone may improve flow and reduce resistance when placed medially, surpassing spreader grafts alone or in combination with flare sutures. The longevity of these maneuvers can only be assessed in the clinical setting. Studies in additional specimens and clinical correlation in human subjects deserve further attention and investigation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA.

External Nasal Valve Efficacy Index: a simple test to evaluate the external nasal valve

Many methods and techniques have been proposed for the assessment of the nasal valve, most requiring special equipment. Furthermore the main focus has been on the internal valve, while the role of the external nasal valve (ENV) has usually been underestimated. An index to assess ENV is presented herein. Two photographs of the basal view of the nose are taken, one in the resting position and the other after deep inspiration. These two life-size views are used to calculate the External Nasal Valve Efficacy Index (ENVE Index). Using simple software, the surface area of the nostril in the resting view (A) and breathing view (B) is measured. The ENVE Index is calculated by dividing the deep inspiration surface area by the resting surface area (B/A). The clinical indications for the use of the ENVE Index include rhinoplasty treatment planning, postoperative evaluation to assess the effects of surgery with regard to improvement or deterioration of the airway, and orthognathic surgery and the planning of appropriate postoperative care (such as elastic or intermaxillary fixation) according to the airway patency. The ENVE Index is a relatively simple, reproducible, and documentable test. This index can help the surgeon to make better decisions during treatment planning and postoperative care.

Evaluating current functional airway surgery during rhinoplasty: a survey of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

BACKGROUND

Despite numerous reports outlining technical modifications in rhinoplasty, few publications discuss the importance of the perioperative assessment and surgical management of the nasal airway. This study's objective is to increase awareness regarding the functional aspects of rhinoplasty surgery and to encourage surgeons to incorporate functional airway management into their rhinoplasty practice.

METHODS

A web-based survey was given to all members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Survey results were analysed to determine if surgeons' experience, annual rhinoplasty volume, or postgraduate training affected their results. The relationship between surgeon satisfaction with the outcome of the airway management and the frequency of performing an inferior turbinate reduction was investigated.

RESULTS

Of the 4,383 listed ASPS members, 671 (21%) completed the web-based survey. Surgeons who performed a preoperative internal nasal exam were more satisfied with their results (p = 0.016) and report lower rates of postoperative nasal airway obstruction (p = 0.054). Inferior turbinate reduction did correlate to postoperative satisfaction with the nasal airway (p < 0.001). Overall, 85% of respondents were satisfied with their management of the nasal airway and 87% of respondents agreed that there is a need for more instructional courses on this topic.

CONCLUSION

There is considerable variation in the results and techniques of assessment and treatment of the nasal airway. Rhinoplasty volume and inferior turbinate reduction are associated with surgeon satisfaction of management of the nasal airway. Functional airway considerations should be incorporated into routine rhinoplasty training, assessment, and treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Upper lateral strut graft: a technique to improve the internal nasal valve

BACKGROUND

Internal nasal valve (INV) collapse can contribute significantly to nasal obstruction and may be caused by upper lateral cartilage (ULC) collapse medially or laterally. Surgical techniques addressing INV collapse have focused more on treating the narrowed INV angle, with less consideration of the lateral INV area. This article describes a technique to improve INV patency both medially and laterally. This study analyzes the changes in minimal cross-sectional area (MCA) at the INV after graft placement and determines whether these changes are significantly different for normal versus narrow INVs.

METHODS

Noses of six fixed cadavers were dissected by open rhinoplasty to release the ULCs from the septum. Upper lateral strut grafts were placed through subperichondrial pockets along the ULC undersurfaces and out over the piriform apertures into subperiosteal pockets. Grafts were secured to the dorsal septum. Acoustic rhinometry and nasal endoscopy were used to classify INVs before graft placement as narrow or normal and to assess changes at the INV after graft placement.

RESULTS

Mean pregraft MCA was 0.58 cm(2). Mean MCA percent increase after graft placement was 22%. By INV type, percent increases were 51% for narrow INVs and 1% for normal INVs. Mean increases in MCA after graft placement were statistically significant for the entire group and for narrow INVs, with increases of 0.10 cm(2) (p = 0.03) and 0.22 cm(2) (p = 0.004), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The upper lateral strut graft improved patency of cadaveric INVs, with statistically significant increases in the MCA most notable when placed for narrow INVs.

Comparison of effects of spreader grafts and flaring sutures on nasal airway resistance in rhinoplasty

Cephalic resection of the lateral crura of the alar cartilages, lateral osteotomies, and removal of the nasal hump during rhinoplasty may cause collapse of the internal nasal valve angle. This study was performed to compare preventive effects of two techniques (spreader grafts and flaring sutures) on rhinoplasty by rhinomanometry. Two hundred and forty-eight patients participated in this semi-experimental study. The patients were assigned into two groups. 28 of them were not available for follow-up. All patients had a straight nose in the midline and no severe septal deviations. 87 of 220 patients underwent the spreader grafts technique and the flaring sutures technique was performed in 133 patients. The nasal airway resistance was calculated by active anterior rhinomanometry on admission to hospital and again between 3 and 6 months following surgery. The mean of follow-up was 20.9 ± 2.9 weeks. After rhinoplasty, nasal airway resistance decreased in 46 patients (52.9 percent) of spreader grafts group and in 84 patients (63.2 percent) of flaring sutures group. The median nasal airway resistance difference (before-after surgery) of spreader grafts and flaring sutures groups was 0.027 Pa/ml/s (range -110 to 130) and 0.017 Pa/ml/s (range -0.690 to 0.790), respectively. The difference of nasal airway resistance between before and after rhinoplasty in two groups was insignificance (Mann-Whitney U test, P = 0.5). The spreader grafts and flaring sutures move the dorsal border of the upper lateral cartilage in a lateral direction and had similar preventive effect on nasal airway resistance after rhinoplasty.

What are some tips and pearls for preserving and improving nasal function when performing a cosmetic rhinoplasty?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Understanding nasal form and function is critical in performing successful cosmetic rhinoplasty. Careful evaluation of the patient's nasal airway with identification of areas of existing or potential obstruction is important in avoiding potential pitfalls that may compromise nasal function following rhinoplasty. This article will review surgical techniques that can be utilized to preserve and improve nasal function during cosmetic rhinoplasty.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent literature on nasal functionality focuses on the management of the internal and external nasal valve as well as the nasal septum during rhinoplasty.

SUMMARY

Successful cosmetic rhinoplasty requires a thorough preoperative analysis of both aesthetic and functional characteristics of the nose. Close attention should be paid to the internal and external nasal valves and nasal septum before and during surgery to preserve and improve nasal function following cosmetic rhinoplasty.

Azelastine and budesonide (nasal sprays): Effect of combination therapy monitored by acoustic rhinometry and clinical symptom score in the treatment of allergic rhinitis

The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the effects of intranasal therapy with azelastine (AZE), budesonide (BUD), and combined AZE plus BUD (AZE/BUD) using a nasal provocation test (NPT) and acoustic rhinometry in patients with allergic rhinitis. A randomized, single-blind, crossover study with three treatment sequences was used. Thirty patients with persistent AR received the three treatments using a nasal spray twice daily for 30 days and were evaluated by an NPT with histamine before and after each period of treatment. The treatment comparison, assessed by the nasal responsiveness to histamine, was monitored based on subjective (symptom score) and objective parameters (acoustic rhinometry). The minimal cross-area 2 (MCA2) was measured by acoustic rhinometry at 1, 4, 8, and 12 minutes after NPT for each histamine concentration administered (0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 6 mg/mL) up to at least a 20% reduction in the MCA2 from baseline (NPT₂₀). The subjects were scored regarding nasal response encompassing histamine dose and time after histamine administration that caused nasal obstruction (NPT₂₀ score) to assess the treatments' effects. Combination therapy produced a significant increase in baseline MCA2, viz., the improvement of nasal patency (p = 0.005). The symptoms score was significantly decreased after treatment with AZE (p = 0.03), BUD (p < 0.0001), and AZE/BUD (p < 0.0001), compared with pretreatment. The NPT₂₀ score was significantly higher (p = 0.0009) after AZE/BUD, compared with AZE and BUD on their own. Thus, AZE therapy combined with BUD might provide more therapeutic benefits than the isolated drugs for improving nasal patency.

Does rhinoplasty reduce nasal patency?

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of rhinoplasty on subjective and objective assessment of nasal patency in patients who underwent rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons only.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

DESIGN

Prospective, clinical study.

SUBJECT AND METHODS

A total of 50 adult patients who underwent rhinoplasty were included in the study. Preoperative and postoperative photographs of the nasal profile (frontal, lateral, and oblique) were obtained. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used for the subjective evaluation of nasal obstruction (0 being the minimum, 10 being the maximum amount of nasal patency). Objective evaluation of nasal obstruction was performed with a peak nasal inspiratory flowmeter (PNIF).

RESULTS

Preoperative mean VAS scores and PNIF values of the patients were 7.36 ± 0.83 and 115.10 ± 17.45, respectively. Postoperative mean VAS scores and PNIF values of the patients were 7.42 ± 0.73 and 115.30 ± 16.7, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between any of the pre- and postoperative subjective and objective parameters (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Reduction rhinoplasty has been shown not to reduce nasal patency.