Conclusion:
Nasal mucociliary clearance is an important primary defense mechanism in
the nose and paranasal sinus, which is dependent on various factors and
can be impaired due to environmental factors, patient factors, and
disease factors. As tracheostomy bypasses the upper airway, it also
leads to altered nasal physiology such as changes in nasal airflow,
nasal cycle, and most importantly, alteration of nasal mucociliary
clearance. In our study, we found out that there is a prolonged
saccharin test implying a reduction of nasal mucociliary clearance
following tracheostomy when compared with age and sex-matched healthy
individuals. This finding is of clinical significance, as patients need
to be counselled regarding the changes in nasal function such as altered
olfaction and increased risk of nasal crusting and sino-nasal diseases.
Acknowledgment:
Nil
Funding:
Nil