The effects of disclosure of sequential rhinomanometry scores on post-septoplasty subjective scores of nasal obstruction: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: We sought to evaluate the effects of awareness of rhinomanometric results on subjective sensation of nasal breathing in patients after septoplasty. Design: Prospective randomised study. Setting: Clinical Hospital Rijeka. Participants: A study of 60 patients (45M, 15F) who underwent septoplasty was performed at the ENT Clinic, Clinical Hospital Rijeka. The patients were randomised into two groups; group A was shown their rhinomanometry scores at 3months postoperatively, while group B remained unaware of their rhinomanometry results. Main outcome measure: The assumption is that in the same settings patients aware of their rhinomanometric results have better performances of their Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale and thereby a better quality of life (QOL) after septoplasty. Results: The differences in rhinomanometric results and NOSE scale prior and after septoplasty were statistically significant (P<0.001), all patients achieving better results after the operation. There was no statistically significant difference in resistance (F=0.004; P=0.948) and improvement of rhinomanometry results in postoperative measurements (F=0.110; P=0.896) between groups A and B. The symptoms measured by the NOSE scale were the same in both groups preoperatively and 1month after septoplasty (F=2.906; P=0.094). Three months postoperatively in group A, the NOSE scale score was lower (M=11.67; sd=12.34) than in group B (M=27.50; sd=18.04). Conclusions: The results suggest that disclosing information to patients about their post-septoplasty rhinomanometry results may improve subjective nasal breathing, and thus improve their QOL. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.