Sinonasal distribution of topically applied particles: computerized tomographic detection and the effects of topical decongestion.
OBJECTIVE
Determine the efficacy of computerized tomography (CT) in detecting the intranasal distribution of sprayed radio-enhanced particles and the effects of topical decongestion on particle distribution.


METHODS
Sinonasal distribution of a radio-enhanced spray solution was studied using CT imaging in 14 adults with no sinonasal symptoms. One nostril was sprayed with oximetazoline 5 minutes prior to particle application. Serial CT imaging of the sinonasal cavity in approximately 11 minutes was carried out to detect particle distribution into the nasal vestibule, turbinate surfaces, middle meatus and osteomeatal complex area, and the nasopharynx.


RESULTS
Particle detection within the nasal vestibule was possible in all cases while distribution into the anterior nasal chamber was visible in 22 cases. Particles could be detected on the inferior turbinate in 7 nasal cavities (25%) and in only 2 cases on the middle turbinate (7.5%). Particles were detected in the middle meatus in 1 case and in no instances in the osteomeatal complex area. Oximetazoline application reduced the amount of particle deposition on the inferior turbinate but did not enhance distribution on the middle turbinate or into the middle meatus.


CONCLUSIONS
Detection of radio-enhanced sprayed particles within the sinonasal cavity using CT imaging can be a reliable method to study the principles of intranasal particle distribution. Our study failed to show particle distribution into OMC, or any positive effects of nasal decongestion on particle distribution.
Senocak
Dogan
D
Department of Otolaryngology, Cerrahpasa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, Turkey. dsenocak@yahoo.com
Senocak
Mustafa
M
Bozan
Serkan
S
D000281:Administration, Intranasal; D000328:Adult; D000336:Aerosols / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007472:Iohexol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D008297:Male; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D014663:Nasal Decongestants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010256:Paranasal Sinuses / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012016:Reference Values; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D000336:Aerosols; D003287:Contrast Media; D014663:Nasal Decongestants; C093233:iobitridol; D007472:Iohexol