Objective computerized determination of the minimum cross-sectional area of the nasal passage on computed tomography.

Abstract

Current methods that measure cross-sectional areas of the nasal passage on computed tomography (CT) do not determine the minimum cross-sectional area that may be an important factor in nasal airway resistance. Objective measurement of the dimensions of the nasal passage may help in the diagnosis, as well as the choice and evaluation of surgical treatment for upper airway insufficiencies. Retrospective and clinical study. Software was developed that automatically calculates the minimum cross-sectional area of the nasal passage on CT. Evaluation shows that the minimization algorithm in the software reliably calculates the position and orientation of the oblique plane on which the minimum cross-section lies. The developed method may be used for objective and observer-independent evaluation of surgical treatment options.