Impact of Nasal Trauma on Olfactory Function

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neuroscience
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Olfactory dysfunction is a common consequence of head and facial trauma.
• The specific impact of nasal trauma, with or without fracture, on olfactory function requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between nasal trauma, nasal fractures, and olfactory function.
• To differentiate the effects of traumatic nasal injuries with and without bone fracture on smell.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive analytical study was conducted involving 113 participants (83 with nasal trauma, 30 controls).
• Nasal trauma patients were categorized into fracture (Group F) and non-fracture (Group Non-F) groups.
• Olfactory function was assessed using the Sniffin' Sticks test, with statistical comparisons using t-tests, Mann-Whitney U-test, and Chi-square tests.

Main Results:

• Patients with nasal fractures (Group F) exhibited significantly lower olfactory scores (TDI) compared to controls.
• No significant difference in olfactory scores was observed between the non-fracture nasal trauma group (Group Non-F) and controls.
• A significant difference in the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction was found between Group F and Group Non-F.

Conclusions:

• Nasal trauma can lead to olfactory dysfunction, but this is contingent upon the presence of a nasal fracture.
• Injuries to the nasal bone are a critical factor in the development of post-traumatic smell disorders.