Selection with and without Rhinomanometry of Patients for Septoplasty

Abstract

One hundred and fifty-two patients were selected for septoplasty on the basis of symptoms and clinical examination, but without the aid of rhinomanometry. The patients were reexamined at a mean of 3.5 years later when rhinomanometry was included. On the second occasion, in 30% of the patients nasal airway resistance (NAR) of the narrower cavity after decongestion was lower than the upper 95% prediction limit of NAR of individuals with no nasal complaints, and in 18% NAR was lower than the mean NAR + 1 SD for the same individuals. At reexamination of the patients who had not yet undergone operations, about a quarter of those with a “normal” NAR no longer had any subjective obstruction. It is concluded that rhinomanometry is of value in selecting patients for septoplasty.