Aerodynamic evaluation of the empty nose syndrome by means of computational fluid dynamics. Issue 14 (26th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Balakin, Boris V.; Farbu, Erlend; Kosinski, Pawel
• Is Part Of: Computer methods in biomechanics and biomedical engineering. Volume 20:Issue 14(2017)
• Page Start: 1554
• Page End: 1561
• Publication Date: 2017-10-26
• Subjects: Empty nose syndrome (ENS) -- computational fluid dynamics (CFD) -- computer tomography (CT) -- aerodynamics -- thermal comfort; Biomechanics -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Biomedical engineering -- Periodicals; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Biomedical Engineering -- methods -- Periodicals; Computing Methodologies -- Periodicals; 612.7
• DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2017.1385779
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1025-5842

Abstract

Abstract: The potential outcome of a surgical enlargement of internal nasal channels may be a complication of nasal breathing termed the Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS). ENS pathophysiology is not entirely understood because the expansion of air pathways would in theory ease inhalation. The present contribution is aimed at defining the biophysical markers responsible for ENS. Our study, conducted in silico, compares nasal aerodynamics in pre- and post-operative geometries acquired by means of computer tomography from the same individual. In this article, we elucidate and analyse the deviation of airflow patterns and nasal microclimate from the healthy benchmarks. The analysis reveals 53% reduction in flow resistance, radical re-distribution of nasal airflow, as well as dryer and colder nasal microclimate for the post-operative case.