Septoplasty and submucous resection are common procedures in the UK. This study looks prospectively at 40 patients undergoing surgery at two hospitals. A pre- and postoperative assessment (3 months) was made using the Sino-nasal Outcome Test. This test was originally designed for rhinosinusitis but our study suggests that it is a useful tool in nasal septal surgery, in that it combines both nasal specific and general health questions, which can be analysed individually or together. Improvements in nasal obstruction (75%), facial pain (33%) and catarrh (10%) were noted.

This study has validated the use of the culture-independent technique T-RFLP in sinonasal samples. Preliminary characterization of the microbial diversity in CRS suggests a complex range of common and novel bacterial species within the upper airway in CRS, providing further evidence for the polymicrobial etiology of CRS.

YouTube appears to be an unreliable resource for accurate and up to date medical information relating to rhinosinusitis. However, it may provide some useful information if mechanisms existed to direct lay people to verifiable and credible sources.

Non-allergic rhinitis may be a contributing factor in up to 60% of rhinitis patients and a sole contributor in a quarter. It is a highly heterogeneous condition with poorly understood pathophysiological mechanisms. Compelling evidence is emerging of a localized nasal mucosal allergic response in some non-allergic rhinitic subjects in the absence of systemic atopy. While the inflammatory disease pathway in non-allergic rhinitis may share some of the features of its allergic counterpart, overall the mechanisms remain unclear, and there are likely to be differences. In particular, symptoms of nasal congestion and rhinorrhoea tend to be more prominent and persistent in non-allergic rhinitic patients compared with allergic rhinitis. Our aim is to review the literature relating to mechanisms and mediators of nasal symptoms in non-allergic rhinitis. Better understanding of the underlying pathophysiological basis should enable the development of more accurate testing, and better targeted therapeutic options in the future.

Objectives The presence of high SARS‐Cov‐2 viral loads in the upper airway, including the potential for aerosolised transmission of viral particles, has generated significant concern amongst Otolaryngologists worldwide, particularly those performing Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS). We evaluated a simple negative pressure mask technique to reduce viral exposure. Methods Two models simulating respiratory droplets >5‐10 μm and fine respiratory nuclei <5 μm using fluorescein dye and wood smoke respectively were utilised in a fixed cadaveric study in a controlled environment. Using Ultra‐Violet light, fluorescein droplet spread was assessed during simulated ESS with powered microdebrider and powered drilling. Wood smoke ejection was used to evaluate fine particulate escape from a negative pressure mask using digital subtraction image processing. Results The use of a negative pressure mask technique resulted in a 98% reduction in the fine particulate aerosol simulation, and eliminated larger respiratory droplet spread during simulated ESS, including during external drill activation. Conclusions As global ENT services resume routine elective operating, we demonstrate the potential use of a simple negative pressure mask technique to reduce the risk of viral exposure for the operator and theatre staff during ESS.