Nasal Irrigation Delivery in Three Post-FESS Models From a Squeeze-bottle Using CFD

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics

Background:

• Nasal saline irrigation is crucial for postoperative recovery after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
• Altered sinonasal anatomy post-FESS creates unique and poorly understood airflow dynamics.
• Understanding saline dispersion is key to optimizing irrigation efficacy.

Observation:

• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeled saline flow in post-FESS nasal cavities.
• Simulations incorporated realistic squeeze bottle dynamics and a 45-degree forward head tilt.
• Liquid dispersion patterns were analyzed during and after a simulated irrigation event.

Findings:

• A large right maxillary sinus ostium directed saline flow, reducing coverage in other paranasal sinuses.
• Increased wall shear stress was observed on the right side in some patients.
• Head position significantly influenced residual saline volume, particularly in the frontal sinuses.

Implications:

• Optimizing saline irrigation techniques post-FESS is essential for effective sinonasal cavity clearance.
• CFD modeling provides valuable insights into fluid dynamics in surgically altered nasal passages.
• Further research can refine irrigation protocols to improve patient outcomes after FESS.