Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Absorption of Nasal and Bronchial Fluids: Precision Sampling of the Human Respiratory Mucosa and Laboratory Processing of Samples
Published on: January 21, 2018
The rhinology laboratory
1Lenox Hill Hospital and Albert Einstein School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
Objectives:
This study seeks to develop a rhinology lab model and to assess its effectiveness for physicians-in-training.
Study Design:
We established a rhinology lab at our institution with simple and affordable modifications to our temporal bone lab. Residents attended a seven-part lecture series and received a list of endoscopic and open procedures to perform on computed tomography (CT)-scanned, vessel-injected cadaver heads.
Methods:
After 2 years we asked participating residents to rate their lab experience on a 1-to-10 (disagree-agree) scale.
Results:
Cumulative scores indicated that residents enthusiastically perceived this additional training as worthwhile (micro=10), while increasing their efficiency (micro=9.5), safety (micro=9.875), and anatomic knowledge (micro=9.875). The lab has opened opportunities for rhinology research, as evidence by one resident publication and another project in progress. Survey feedback has helped develop guidelines for instructor participation in the lab as well as for assigned reading and independent study.
Conclusions:
Based on our preliminary experience, we recommend the rhinology lab to all residency programs as an important yet cost-effective means of maintaining education in step with rapidly changing technologies.
Related Concept Videos
Nose and Nasal Cavity
Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture
Gram Stain
The Gram Stain is an integral part of sputum studies. It involves the staining of sputum, which permits...
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract

