[Acoustic rhinometry: comparison of pre- and post-septoplasty]

Acoustic rhinometry (AR) is a new, objective method for evaluating the geometry of the nasal cavity, the cross-sectional area and the nasal cavity volume. 36 patients with septal deformities were examined with AR. The values were compared with those of 21 normal controls and also the comparison was made pre-operatively and post-operatively in 18 patients undergoing septoplasty. The results showed that the minimal cross-sectional area (MCSA) was located in the anterior part of the nasal cavity corresponding to the area causing main nasal airway resistance (NAR). After septoplasty, increased MCSA with decreased NAR indicated that MCSA might reflect the state of nasal ventilation function properly, while the nasal cavity volume seemed not to be a sensitive parameter for evaluating nasal ventilation function. As the sensation of nasal airflow presents a different entity than NAR, the interpretation of the results of acoustic rhinometry and rhinomanometry, and the relationship with the subjective symptoms should be made with caution. The choice of surgical indications and the evaluation of medical effect should be made according to both objective examination and subjective symptoms.