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A Microfluidic Model of Biomimetically Breathing Pulmonary Acinar Airways
Published on: May 9, 2016
Effect of accessory ostia on maxillary sinus ventilation: a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study
Jian Hua Zhu1, Heow Pueh Lee, Kian Meng Lim
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore. jhzhu.me@gmail.com
Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|July 4, 2012
Summary
Accessory ostia (AOs) significantly enhance maxillary sinus ventilation during normal breathing. These openings dramatically improve airflow compared to sealed sinuses, though their precise physiological impact remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Respiratory Physiology
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Maxillary sinus ventilation is crucial for sinus health.
- The role of accessory ostia (AOs) in maxillary sinus airflow is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of accessory ostia on maxillary sinus ventilation using computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
Main Methods:
- A 3D nasal model with and without AOs was created from CT scans.
- Transient CFD simulations were performed for quiet breathing and nasal blowing at different flow rates.
- Low-Reynolds-number turbulent analysis was employed.
Main Results:
- Sinuses with AOs exhibited ventilation rates over a magnitude higher than those without.
- Absence of AOs nearly eliminated sinus ventilation.
- Airflow patterns within the sinuses were altered by the presence of AOs, especially under high flow conditions.
Conclusions:
- Accessory ostia significantly increase maxillary sinus airflow.
- AOs alter intra-sinus air circulation patterns.
- The physiological or pathophysiological consequences of these airflow changes require further investigation.
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