Investigation of Airflow in Human Nasal Cavity and Virtual Septoplasty Using CFD

Breathing is essential for oxygen supply, and nasal structure significantly impacts airflow. Conditions like septal deviation which affect 20-35% of people often require septoplasty, but long-term outcomes remain uncertain. Virtual surgery, combining CFD and medical imaging, offers a predictive tool to evaluate surgical efficacy beforehand. This study presents a CFD simulation of airflow in human nasal cavity and proposes a numerical methodology for virtual septoplasty. The method was validated using the Carleton University Standardized Human Nasal Cavity Geometry available in the open-source literature. Virtual septoplasty was simulated by modifying computational grid of the nasal cavity, and pre-/postoperative flow results were compared at various breath rates. Key parameters involving nasal resistance and nasal power were quantified. Results demonstrated measurable changes in airflow dynamics, enabling objective assessment of surgical outcomes. This approach helps clinicians predict postoperative improvements, avoid unnecessary surgeries, and enhance patient counselling. The study highlights the potential of the interdisciplinary collaboration of engineers and medical doctors in surgical planning.