Chapter 3 - Pathophysiology of the empty nose syndrome (ENS)

Abstract

This chapter presents the pathophysiology of empty nose syndrome. Although scientific research regarding nasal physiology, the essence of nasal function, has increased considerably, there are, according to the literature, still insufficient preoperative objective studies to guide surgical practice. Often the nasal surgeon determines the functional capacity of the nasal “organ” by observation and subjective patient reporting alone, as evidenced by the ample and abundant absence of objective testing data in the majority of papers in the literature dealing with almost any aspect of nasal surgery. The justification of this “observational” practice stems from a number of factors. Although some objective nasal functional tests are available, few are routinely used by practicing surgeons. In addition, there is an associated absence of medical, legal, or patient community pressure demanding functional testing prior to any nasal surgery including rhinoplasty.