The Simplified Nasal Septal Deviation Evaluation System and Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Scale Correlation

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Medical Imaging
• Symptom Assessment

Background:

• Nasal septal deviation (NSD) is a prevalent condition in otorhinolaryngology.
• Understanding the relationship between NSD localization, severity, and patient-reported symptoms is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between the localization and severity of nasal septal deviation (NSD) and associated symptoms.
• To propose a simplified assessment method for evaluating NSD.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-five patients with nasal obstruction were enrolled.
• The nasal cavity was divided into four sections (antero-superior, antero-inferior, postero-superior, postero-inferior) for NSD scoring.
• Nasal obstruction symptoms were assessed using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale.

Main Results:

• Mean NSD scores varied across sections, with the antero-superior section showing the highest mean score.
• A strong positive correlation (r=0.9556) was observed between total NSD score (≥6) and NOSE scores.
• Deviations affecting the internal nasal valve, particularly in the antero-superior section, showed the strongest correlation with nasal obstruction and patient discomfort.

Conclusions:

• The proposed septal classification system offers a simple and effective method for evaluating NSD.
• NSD impacting the internal nasal valve is significantly associated with increased nasal obstruction and patient-reported discomfort.