Rhinomanometry as a Method of Functional Nasal Examination

Overview

The authors analyze a group of 150 patients examined by rhinomanometry (RMM) atthe University Hospital ENT Clinic, Hradec Králové. Rhinomanometry is defined as a method ofobjective quantitative evaluation of nasal flow. The technique used was anterior active contralateralrhinomanometry with a Rhinomanometer 200 Atmos. Rhinomanometry is rated as an additionalfunctional investigation method for the assessment of any morphological pathology of the nasalcavity, including the nasal vestibulum and nasopharynx. Another indication includes evaluation oftemporal changes of nasal patency (e.g. pre- and postoperative conditions), it is also useful in caseof medicolegal problems. The rhinomanometric curve, which is the result of the investigation,indicates the dependence of nasal flow on the differential pressure between the nasal vestibuluma nasopharynx. The clinical interpretation of the rhinomanometry is discussed. The benefit of theinvestigation is proportionate not only to the accuracy of the measurement but also to the correct interpretation of the results. There remains the problem of wide dispersion of the results andfrequent controversy between the subjective and objective evaluation of nasal flow.

Key words:
rhinomanometry, nasal flow.