Internal nasal valve and its significance

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Nasal Anatomy
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• The internal nasal valve (INV) represents the narrowest nasal region, significantly influencing airflow dynamics.
• Turbulence during inhalation and exhalation occurs at the INV, impacting nasal function.
• Understanding the INV's role in health and disease is critical for nasal and sinus health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the significance of the internal nasal valve (INV) in relation to nasal health and disease.
• To investigate the correlation between INV anatomy and the occurrence of sinus and ear pathologies.

Main Methods:

• A prospective descriptive study was conducted at a tertiary center.
• 150 students were monitored for 2 years, with endoscopic assessment of INV anatomy.
• Patients reporting sinus or ear disease during follow-up were analyzed for INV characteristics.

Main Results:

• Septal deviation at the INV was observed in a majority of cases presenting with sinus or ear disease.
• Specific INV anatomical types were identified in both healthy and diseased states.
• A correlation was found between INV abnormalities and the incidence of sinus/ear pathologies.

Conclusions:

• Internal nasal valve (INV) abnormalities, especially septal deviation, are frequently associated with sinus and ear diseases.
• Correcting INV abnormalities concurrently with sinus or ear pathology treatment is recommended.
• Addressing INV structure may improve outcomes for patients with sinonasal and otologic conditions.