Tony L. Kille and Diane G. Heatley

Effect of Nasal Saline Wash on Mucociliary Function

Sinonasal disease is a significant entity in terms of patient quality of life as well as economic impact on society. Over-the-counter remedies for sinonasal symptoms are a multi-billion dollar industry. Nasal saline irrigation is becoming more popular, and a variety of formulations and delivery systems are available. Previous studies suggest saline irrigation provides symptomatic improvement, however, the effects of these treatments on nasal mucociliary function remain controversial. The focus of this study is the effect of over-the-counter sinonasal irrigants upon nasal mucociliary clearance rate. Efficient transport of mucus from the sinuses and nose is dependent upon organized ciliary beating and mucus rheology, and is an important indicator of sinonasal health. Mucociliary transport time will be evaluated by measuring the time for transport of saccharin through the nose. Thus, by measuring the saccharin transport time before and after irrigation we can compare the effects of these over-the-counter preparations on mucociliary clearance. A variety of saline formulations, as well as different delivery systems, will be tested on both normal subjects and those who suffer from chronic sinonasal symptoms. By presenting a scientific basis for the assessment of available topical nasal preparations, the results of this study will be highly significant to healthcare providers. The outcomes will allow appropriate counseling of patients with regard to use of over-the-counter irrigation products for treatment of sinonasal disease.

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Otolaryngology Surgery University of Wisconsin Department of Surgery
First published: 07/15/02 Last updated: 11/24/09 webmaster@surgery.wisc.edu
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