Acoustic rhinometry and computed tomography scans for the diagnosis of nasal septal deviation, with clinical correlation.

OBJECTIVE The aim in this study was to analyze the efficiency and reliability of acoustic rhinometry (AR) readings in recognition of nasal septal deviation. METHOD We compared 24 patients' AR readings with their sinus CT scans. The patient data were analyzed by comparison with normative data, area, and percentage differences between the two sides. Additionally, the data further analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curve and Spearman correlation of CT and AR in determining nasal septal deviation. RESULTS The sensitivity of AR in detecting anterior septal deviations was found to be 54%, with a specificity of 70%. A very highly significant correlation (P < or = 0.001) was found between minimal cross-sectional area (CSA) 1 values and CT results. DISCUSSION In the interpretation of AR readings, comparison of each CSA value should be included, in addition to use of the total absolute CSA values. CONCLUSION According to our findings the diagnosis of nasal septal deviation can be supported by AR readings.