[Experimental study on the air streams in the paranasal sinus]

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Medical Aerosol Science

Context:

• Investigating airflow dynamics within the paranasal sinus is crucial for advancing aerosol therapy.
• Current aerosol delivery methods may not optimally target sinus cavities.
• Understanding paranasal sinus airflow can improve treatment efficacy for various conditions.

Purpose:

• To investigate air stream dynamics within the paranasal sinus using a Nose-Sinus Model.
• To quantify aerosol deposition in the maxillary sinus based on ostium size.
• To evaluate the impact of positive pressure on aerosol delivery into the sinus.

Summary:

• Air velocity in the paranasal sinus was measured using Laser Doppler Anemometry, and stream visualization was achieved with the Laser Light Sheet method.
• Aerosol entry into the maxillary sinus demonstrated a proportional relationship with the ostium's sectional area.
• Positive pressure applied from the choana, utilizing the Laser Light Sheet technique, significantly enhanced aerosol passage into the sinus.

Impact:

• Findings suggest that widening the middle meatus and applying intermittent positive pressure are essential for effective aerosol delivery into the paranasal sinus.
• This research provides fundamental knowledge for optimizing aerosol therapy device design and application.
• Improved aerosol delivery can lead to enhanced treatment outcomes for sinus-related diseases.