Olfactory ability as a function of nasal air flow volume in laryngectomees.

This study tested a number of hypotheses concerning the interrelationships between the olfactory abilities and the volume of nasal airflow in laryngectomees. Data were collected from 25 laryngectomees and 25 control subjects and comprised the following: 1) Odor threshold and identification test results. In the threshold test, an 11-step aqueous dilution series of butanol was used. In the odor identification tests, 14 common odorants were used. 2) Measurement of nasal air flow volume in liters per minute. For olfaction and airflow, the laryngectomees' measurements were made under two conditions: 1) using unassisted airflow through the nose, and 2) using a laryngeal bypass that linked the stoma to the mouth and allowed airflow through the nose. The major findings showed that among laryngectomees olfactory abilities depend on nasal airflow. It is concluded that laryngectomees have intact olfactory mechanisms that function normally when adequate airflow volume is provided.