Effect of alar nasal valve stent on nasal breathing.

PURPOSE: Lateral nasal wall insufficiency has previously been a surgical challenge. In 2018, the Alar Nasal Valve Stent (Medtronic) was taken into use at Helsinki University Hospital. The alar cartilages are repositioned and locked into position with the Alar Nasal Valve Stent on the mucosa. The stent gives support and widens the alar valve while cartilages scar into their new position presumably facilitating breathing after removal of the stent. The aim of this prospective, observational study was to investigate whether the Alar Nasal Valve Stent has an effect on nasal breathing in patients with lateral nasal wall insufficiency. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Symptom questionnaires (Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation, five-step symptom score) were analyzed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry, and peak nasal inspiratory flow were analyzed preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. The patients performed a stress ergometry preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively, with their noses being photographed and filmed. RESULTS: In a series of 18 patients, a significant positive difference was seen in subjective symptom scores preoperatively versus postoperatively. The difference remained stable throughout the follow-up. No difference in objective symptom measurements was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Patients suffering from lateral nasal wall insufficiency experience a significant subjective improvement in nasal breathing after Alar Nasal Valve Stent surgery.