Detection of adenoidal hypertrophy using acoustic rhinomanometry

Adenoidal hypertrophy is the commonest cause of nasal obstruction in the pediatric population. It may cause marked morbidity as regards respiratory physiology, facial growth and middle ear function. Determination of adenoidal presence and size is not easy. Nasal endoscopy and radiology are the most accepted modes of diagnosis and each has its disadvantages. We have used acoustic rhinometry to determine the size of adenoids. Changes in nasal volume and resistance were recorded and an easy formula was devised to determined adenoid size. This technique is easy, non-invasive and reproducible with a 93.5% predictive value.