Acoustic Rhinometry: Accuracy and Ability to Detect Changes in Passage Area at Different Locations in the Nasal Cavity

Abstract

The results of the study show that AR is a valuable method for assessing the anterior nasal cavity. This technique is sensitive for detecting changes in passage area at the nasal valve region; however, the sensitivity is lower at sites posterior to this. The findings suggest that when there is substantial narrowing of the nasal valve, AR will not identify an obstruction at any location posterior to the nasal valve. In such situations, AR measurements beyond the abnormal nasal valve may easily lead to misinterpretation of the patient's nasal anatomy or condition.