Integrating the Divided Nasal Cannula Into Routine Polysomnography to Assess Nasal Cycle: Feasibility and Effect on Outcomes

Abstract

Replacing an undivided nasal cannula with a divided nasal cannula is easy to implement, adding another physiologic measure to polysomnography. Although the divided nasal cannula did not significantly affect traditional polysomnographic metrics such as the apnea-hypopnea index or periodic limb movement index based on this small pilot study, we were able to replicate past nasal cycle findings that may be of interest to sleep clinicians and researchers. Given the ease with which the divided nasal cannula can be integrated, we encourage other sleep researchers to investigate the utility of using a divided nasal cannula during polysomnography.

A Preliminary Report on the Correlation Between Nasal Function and the Different Phases of the Nasal Cycle

“…1 The turbinate regulates the intake airflow throughout the nasal cycle so that the total nasal resistance on both sides remains essentially the same, with no significant impact on normal respiratory function. 2 Most adults with normal nasal function have a nasal cycle that fluctuates between 0.5 and 7 hours. 2,3 Under normal circumstances, the nasal cavity has the function of regulating the temperature and humidity level of the inhaled air.…”

“…2 Most adults with normal nasal function have a nasal cycle that fluctuates between 0.5 and 7 hours. 2,3 Under normal circumstances, the nasal cavity has the function of regulating the temperature and humidity level of the inhaled air. 4,5 The indexes to evaluate the function of nasal mucosa include the frequency and velocity of the ciliary movement, the temperature of the nasal cavity, and the levels of nasal nitric oxide (nNO).…”

“…2 Most adults with normal nasal function have a nasal cycle that fluctuates between 0.5 and 7 hours. 2,3…”