Pharyngometer/Rhinometer
Pharyngometer
The pharyngometer (instrument 2) test is used to map the cross-sectional diameter of the oral airway and measure its stability. This allows one to discover existing points of obstruction as well as your optimal breathing position.
In addition, the pharyngometer is instrumental in determining your eligibility regarding successful oral appliance therapy.
Rhinometer
In order to check the nasal passages, the rhinometer (instrument 1) test is performed first. This tool helps to rule out any obstruction or enlargement in the turbinates as the cause of your sleep disordered breathing problem.
How is Pharyngometry done?
Pharyngometry is non-invasive and only takes a few minutes. The patient sits upright and places the Pharyngometer in their mouth. The fit is similar to a SCUBA mouthpiece the device fits between the teeth. The practitioner has the patient move their jaw backward and forward, while sound waves measure the airway volume in real-time. This allows the practitioner to locate the most unstable and narrowest portions of the airway.
If an oral appliance is to be used for treatment, the Pharyngometer is then used in the same manner to measure the best jaw position for maintaining an open and stable airway. Thus, precise fitting of the oral appliance can be made.
