3D Printing for Topical Nasal Corticosteroid Irrigations: a Randomized Clinical Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology to improve nasal irrigation outcomes for adults with chronic rhinosinusitis, with or without nasal polyps. Chronic rhinosinusitis is a common condition causing nasal obstruction, facial pain, nasal discharge, and loss of smell, significantly affecting quality of life. This study aims to personalize nasal irrigation techniques based on individual nasal anatomy to enhance treatment effectiveness and patient satisfaction, especially for those who are not candidates for surgery or prefer less invasive options. Participants use a 3D-printed nasal replica derived from their CT scans to help determine the best head position for nasal irrigation. The study compares three groups: a control group using the standard FDA-recommended head position, a backfill group using a specific 90-degree ear-to-shoulder tilt, and a model group using a personalized optimal position based on their 3D nasal replica. All participants irrigate their sinuses once daily with 2 mg mometasone in 240 mL NeilMed sinus rinse bottles for 8 weeks. During the study, participants complete symptom evaluations including the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score, 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for nasal congestion at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. CT scans assess sinus inflammation using the Lund-Mackay (LM) score at the same time points. The study monitors patient adherence and collects data to evaluate whether personalized irrigation improves quality of life and nasal symptom relief over the 8-week treatment period.

3D Printing to Improve Nasal Irrigation Outcome