Numerical simulation of airflow patterns and air temperature distribution during inspiration in a nose model with septal perforation

Background: The most typical symptoms of patients with nasal septal perforation (SP) are crusting and recurrent nosebleed. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of SP on intranasal temperature profile and airflow patterns during inspiration by means of numerical simulation. Methods: Two realistic bilateral models of the human nose with and without SP were reconstructed based on computed tomography (CT). A numerical simulation was performed. The intranasal air temperature distribution and airflow, patterns during inspiration were displayed, analyzed, and compared. Results: SP causes a highly disturbed airflow, in the area of preforation. A spacious vortex within the perforation including various localized vortices was detected. A disturbed intranasal temperature distribution between the right and left nasal cavities developed. Conclusions: The numerical simulation demonstrates the interaction between airflow patterns and heating of respiratory air. The disturbed airflow causes reduced air conditioning. This fact may contribute to crusting and recurrent nosebleed.