Numerical study of a nasal cavity model having a constricted pharyngeal section representing obstructive sleep apnea

This study presents, use of a technique based on functional imaging and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling in generating useful data that can be used to determine and diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) condition. A three-dimensional nasal cavity model was reconstructed based on computed tomographic images of a healthy Malaysian adult nose. Navier-Stokes and continuity equations for steady airflow were solved numerically to examine inspiratory and expiratory nasal flow.The study showed that, the pressure drop from the choanae to the OSA region was found to be larger than the pressure drop through the nasal passages. Stresses as high as 42.4 Pa were observed in this constricted OSA passageway, which is otherwise not a common occurrence in the normal subjects.