Rhinomanometry: Key to Understanding Nasal Airflow

Alternative names

Active anterior rhinimanometry.

Definition

Diagnostic test used in the field of Otolaryngology or Allergology that allows studying the flow of air at different pressures that passes through the nostrils during inspiration and expiration and detecting possible obstructions and / or resistance in its path. The study requires the use of a rhinomanometer (apparatus that measures air flows and resistances) connected to a computer which collects and analyzes the results obtained.

There are multiple rhinomanometers available, and depending on the type and measurement technique used, rhinomanometry can take different names (computerized, active anterior, active anterior with face mask, passive anterior, active posterior, etc.). The most commonly performed study is active anterior rhinomanometry with or without a mask.

How is the study done?

The study is carried out in Otorhinolaryngology and / or Allergology units in adapted rooms. Cleaning of both nostrils should be performed prior to the study.

In active anterior rhinomanometry, the patient remains seated in front of the rhinomanometer, a face mask (if you want to measure airflow) or a nasal olive (if you want to measure resistance to airflow) will be placed and asked to breathe with normality and slowly. During the study, a nasal fossa is usually occluded and later the contralateral one to obtain the measurement of flows and resistances of each nostril independently and of both nostrils jointly. The study usually lasts 15-20 minutes.

Preparation for the study

The study does not require preparation except for proper nasal hygiene prior to its performance. It is advisable to avoid smoking and the use of medication or toxic substances applied inside both nostrils at least 48 hours prior to the study.

What does it feel like during and after the study?

Active anterior rhinomanometry is painless for the patient.

Study risks

Active anterior rhinomanometry does not pose risks to the patient.

Study contraindications

Active anterior rhinomanometry has no contraindications for its performance.

Reasons why the study is carried out

Rhinomanometry makes it possible to assess whether there are alterations in the passage of air through the nostrils both at its entry during inspiration and at its exit during expiration. It allows detecting the presence of obstructions or resistance to the passage of air produced for example by the presence of polyps, inflammation of the nasal mucosa, hypertrophy of turbinates or adenoids, deviation of the nasal septum, etcetera; and quantify whether said alterations are so important as to require surgical or non-surgical treatment.

It is also useful as a control test after certain treatments (such as septoplasty or correction of the deviation of the nasal septum) to check whether they have been effective or not, for which it is compared whether the values ​​obtained after treatment have improved or not with respect to the initial values.