Facial Plast Surg 2024; 40(03): 323-330
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778072
Original Article

Computational Fluid Dynamics and Its Potential Applications for the ENT Clinician

1   Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
,
Aspen R. Schneller*
1   Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
,
Thomas J. Lepley*
1   Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
,
Zhenxing Wu
1   Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
,
Kai Zhao
1   Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
› Author Affiliations
Funding K.Z. was funded by NIH NIDCD R01DC020302. The funder has no role in designing and conducting of the study; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; and decision to submit the manuscript for publication.

Abstract

This article is an examination of computational fluid dynamics in the field of otolaryngology, specifically rhinology. The historical development and subsequent application of computational fluid dynamics continues to enhance our understanding of various sinonasal conditions and surgical planning in the field today. This article aims to provide a description of computational fluid dynamics, the methods for its application, and the clinical relevance of its results. Consideration of recent research and data in computational fluid dynamics demonstrates its use in nonhistological disease pathology exploration, accompanied by a large potential for surgical guidance applications. Additionally, this article defines in lay terms the variables analyzed in the computational fluid dynamic process, including velocity, wall shear stress, area, resistance, and heat flux.

* These authors contributed equally to the article.




Publication History

Article published online:
15 January 2024

© 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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