Acoustic rhinometry: validation of volume changes following intra-nasal polypectomy

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Abstract
Acoustic rhinometry measures nasal cavity geometry by analysis of reflected acoustic impulses. Previously, the technique has been applied to normals, patients with septal deviations and rhinitis and to monitor the medical treatment of nasal polyps. To date, no study has been published to validate the application of this technique where nasal polyps are present. In this study, acoustic rhinometry has been used to assess the change in nasal cavity volume following intra-nasal polypectomy in 20 subjects. The volumes of the polyps removed surgically were measured by displacement and compared with the volume change recorded by acoustic rhinometry. A correlation of r = 0.59 (P = < 0.01) has been obtained. Therefore, it is possible to apply acoustic rhinometry as a method of assessing non-surgical treatment of nasal polyps given certain conditions.