Measurement of Nasal Patency: Rhinomanometry

Rhinomanometry refers to a measurement procedure of the volume flow passing through the main nasal cavity (i.e., from the nasal valves to the posterior nasal openings). It provides objective measurement data on the degree of nasal patency or obstruction (Latin obstructio, occlusion).

Indications (areas of application)

  • Checking the function of the nose in the respiratory system
  • Obstruction of nasal breathing

The procedure

Rhinomanometry involves measuring the pressure difference between the nasal inlet and the nasopharynx, each during inhalation and exhalation. During this procedure, a face mask is used to calculate the flow velocity. The measurement results are expressed in ml/s (airflow/time = flow).

Active anterior rhinomanometry is the term used for the measurement procedure of the intrinsic flow method, in which one nasal opening is closed with a measuring probe (pressure measurement) while the patient breathes independently through the other nasal opening via a face mask.