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Effects of septal perforation on nasal airflow: computer simulation study
H P Lee1, R R Garlapati, V F H Chong
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore. mpeleehp@nus.edu.sg
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|September 25, 2009
Summary
Nasal septal perforations cause airflow exchange between nostrils, particularly with larger defects. This cross-flow in nasal septal perforation may lead to whistling sounds and potential bleeding.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Nasal septal perforation is a defect in the nasal septum.
- Understanding its impact on airflow and patency is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of nasal septal perforation size on nasal airflow patterns.
- To analyze airflow dynamics using computational simulation.
Main Methods:
- 3D nasal models were created from MRI data of a healthy subject.
- Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were performed.
- Analysis focused on airflow patterns and velocity.
Main Results:
- Maximum velocity and wall shear stress occurred downstream of the perforation, potentially causing bleeding.
- Flow exchange and reversal occurred through the perforation, from higher to lower flow rate sides, especially in moderate to large perforations.
Conclusions:
- Airflow exchange between nostrils occurs in patients with septal perforations, more significantly with moderate to large sizes.
- Negligible cross-flow in small perforations.
- This cross-flow may explain the whistling sound associated with nasal septal perforation.
