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