Aerodynamic, acoustic, and perceptual changes following adenoidectomy.

Fourteen children were seen prior to adenoidectomy and at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months following surgery. On each visit, nasal airway resistance values, nasal cross-sectional area estimates, nasalance scores, and perceptual ratings of nasality were collected. These data were analyzed to identify changes that were related to the time of the test, and to the primary indication for surgery (nasal airway obstruction or recurrent infection). Results revealed significant reduction in nasal airway resistance and significant changes in nasalance following surgery. Perceptual changes were not significant. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.