Over the last two decades, significant progress has been made in the field of rhinology—some even feel they have been the two most exciting decades for rhinology so far. Basic research increased our knowledge of the pathophysiology of rhinosinusitis, of allergy and immunology, environmental and developmental problems, as well as of smell, taste, and genetic features. Imaging technologies with reduced or even no radiation, CT and MRI, allowed for pictures of anatomical structures and pathological processes, for three-dimensional visualization unheard of before. Microscopes and endoscopes gave insight on the nose and its sinuses with unprecedented clarity, resulting in new diagnostic and surgical procedures, all aiming to avoid unnecessary trauma.
