[Concepts for measuring quality of life in patients with chronic sinusitis]

In 1997, Benninger developed the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSBI) for patients who suffered from chronic sinusitis. Its content related validity and construct related validity were established, as were its sensitivity and reliability. The aim of our study is to introduce a concept to measure quality of life in these patients according to circumstances prevalent in Germany.

The questionnaire (Rhinusitis-Beeinträchtigungs-Index, RSBI) contains 30 questions that describe the 5 aspects of quality of life. Moreover we used a standardized data sheet to acquire further information about history and diagnostic results. Using this method it is possible to specificity more precisely the patients current complaints and condition. Evaluation is possible according to complex of questions as well as simple items. The influence of treatment on quality of life can be measured as the sum of the specific scores and is expressed comprehensively in the total score. The concept of the study includes a prospective inquiry as well as before and after surgical intervention.

A disadvantage of the American RSDI is that the clinical symptoms are not described in a detailed catalogue which allows the correlation of the clinical factors. Therefore we added a detailed questionnaire concerning the clinical symptoms and the individual treatment of the patient (RSBI). That permits comprehensive analysis of quality of life as it relates to different aspects of disease and different strategies in treatment.