Change in Minimal Cross Sectional Area Using the New Nasal Dilator, “Airplus”

Abstract

In 36 persons without nasal complaints nasal cavities were investigated using acoustic rhinometry (Rhin 2000), to study the effect of a nasal dilator (ND) named “Airplus”. The minimal cross sectional area (MCA) of both the right and left side was assessed before and after application of the ND, and the total MCA was calculated as the sunl of the right and left side. In 8 persons the MCA was measured before and after 2 applications of the ND. In 8 persons the MCA was measured before, immediately after and 2 hours after application of the ND. In trial one the median total MCA was 1.37 cm² before and 1.96 cm² after application of the ND. This corresponds to an increase of 43%, p < 0.000 — 01. In trial two the median total MCA was increased from 1.37 cm² respectively 1.35 cm² to 1.98 cm² respectively 2.01 cm². an increase of 45% respectively 49%, p < 0.008 in both. In trial three the median total MCA was 1.21 cm² before and 1.95 cm² immediately after application and 1.93 cm² after 2 hours. The increase was 61 and 59%. p < 0.008 in both. The results show that the “Airplus” nasal dilator improves significantly the MCA. it was possible to reproduce the effect and it was stable in the recorded period.

Key Words:

• acoustic rhinometry
• nasal dimension