Rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry

Rhinomanometry/acoustic rhinometry is an in-depth instrumental examination in functional rhinological pathology. Rhinomanometry estimates the nasal resistance by measuring the airflow and the trans-nasal pressure gradient; acoustic rhinometry studies the geometry and the volumes of the nasal passages, through the analysis of the impedance offered by the different nasal structures to an acoustic signal, of which the reflected waves are received and analyzed. The examination is generally performed before and a few minute after the application of a nasal vasoconstrictor, which reduces any edema of the mucous membranes. This examination enables us to detect the presence of a nasal respiratory obstruction and to evaluate the structures that mostly cause it (turbinates, septum, etc.). The difference between the findings before and after the use of the vasoconstrictor shows whether the obstruction is reversible (for example, due to mucosal hypertrophy of the nasal turbinates) or is linked to anatomical alterations (such as deviation of the nasal septum).