Study of nasal valvular stenosis by means of acoustic rhinometry using ognibene internal dilator

The nasal valve represents the main region of nasal respiratory resistance; therefore, even small deformities in this area can result in breathing disorders. A total of 93 patients (55 male, 38 female, mean age 37 years, range 16-52) suffering from nasal respiratory impairment due to valvular stenosis were recruited to study nasal function by means of rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry. Examinations were made in basal conditions, after decongestion and using the Ognibene internal dilator. Of these patients, 75 underwent surgery for functional correction of valvular stenosis and were observed at follow-up 3 months later, to analyse the surgical outcome. A review of the data concerning acoustic rhinometry has proven that, on the basis of post-operative tests, Minimal Cross-sectional Area values almost match pre-operative findings, carried out with nasal dilator. The aim of the present study is to demonstrate that acoustic rhinometry, associated with rhinomanometry and carried out with the aid of Ognibene internal dilator, is a valid tool for the diagnosis of nasal valvular stenosis and can also be usefully employed in post-operative follow-up.