Results
There was a significant decrease of VAS scores and improvement in PNIF with the dilators in situ compared to baseline. After 4 weeks, 67% of the patients were willing to continue using at least one of the chosen dilators. The reasons for discontinuation were local irritation, inappropriate fit, preference for a permanent solution like surgery, and no relief of symptoms.
Conclusion
Nasal dilators represent a valuable option in the therapeutic approach of nasal valve compromise, with endonasal dilators achieving higher increase in PNIF in comparison with external nasal dilators.