Acoustic rhinometry assessment of the nasal cycle in neonates

In this study the nasal cycle in newborns was assessed using acoustic rhino metry with miniprobe (RHIN 2100). Enrolled in the study were 67 newborns ag ed 2 to 4 days. Each subject was assessed for 3 h, examinations taking plac e every 30 min. At least six measurements, three from each nostril, were ta ken at each examination. The miniprobe RHIN 2100 (SR Electronics ApS) was u sed for evaluation of nasal geometry. The minimal cross-sectional area (MCA ) and the total volume of the anterior 45 mm (VOL45) were calculated and us ed for statistical analysis. The mean volume of MCA and VOL45 in the examin ed group of children was 0.08 cm(3) and 1.19 cm(3) respectively. Nasal cycl e was assessed by constructing the plots of acoustic rhinometry parameters MCA or VOL45 for time and statistically using Pearson's correlation coeffic ients. Most of the examined infants (70-85%) showed no significant fluctuat ions in nasal patency.