Acoustic rhinometry nasal geometry assessment in Chilean healthy population

Abstract

Introduction: Acoustic rhinometry is a laboratory technique that allows assess nasal airway. In our area there is still debate regarding its usefulness and there are no local studies for reference values. Aim: To establish acoustic rhinometry reference values for healthy adult Chilean population. Material and method: Prospective clinical and analytical study. Healthy adult volunteers were selected for rhinological and anthropometric evaluation (body surface area). Minimum areas of cross section and endonasal volumes in each nostril at baseline and after topical administration of a vasoconstrictor were measured. Results: 83 healthy adult subjects were obtained, 56.63% males and 43.37% female, mean age of 24.3 years. Acoustic rhinometry parameters were: 0.61 ± 0.14 cm2 MCA1, MCA2 0.62 ± 0.018 cm 2, 1.99 ± 0.039 cm3 Vol1, Vol2 4.43 ± 0.15 cm3. Post vasoconstrictor significant increase except in areas and volumes Vol1 was found. Discussion: It is essential to define the normal range of internal diameters of the nasal cavity, and then apply this information in evaluating endonasal geometry abnormality. Conclusion: Significant differences in acoustic rhinometry parameters by sex and post- vasoconstriction response were found, without differences in relation to anthropometry.