Our Summary

This research paper discusses a rare type of nasal polyp, known as a septochoanal polyp, which grows from the lining of the nasal septum (the wall dividing the nostrils) towards the choana (the back of the nasal cavity). These polyps usually originate from the top part of the rear section of the nasal septum.

In an even rarer occurrence, these polyps can undergo a process called metaplastic ossification, where the polyp tissue starts to transform into bone. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there haven’t been any cases of septochoanal polyps with metaplastic ossification reported in medical literature before.

The authors share a case where a large septochoanal polyp, which had undergone metaplastic ossification, blocked both the nasal cavity and the nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat that connects to the nasal cavity). This polyp was successfully removed using a transnasal endoscopic approach (a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it, inserted through the nose).

FAQs

  1. What is a septochoanal polyp and where does it originate from?
  2. What is metaplastic ossification in the context of nasal polyps?
  3. How was the septochoanal polyp with metaplastic ossification removed in the reported case?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions closely. This may include avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, and keeping the nasal passages clean and moist with saline nasal sprays. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients with nasal polyps that are causing symptoms such as nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, recurrent sinus infections, and loss of smell are typically recommended for nasal polyp removal. In the case of septochoanal polyps with metaplastic ossification, surgery may be necessary to remove the polyp and improve nasal breathing and overall quality of life for the patient.

Timeline

Before nasal polyp removal:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, reduced sense of smell, postnasal drip, facial pressure or pain, and snoring.
  • Patient may undergo diagnostic tests such as a nasal endoscopy, CT scan, or MRI to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.
  • Treatment options may include medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to reduce inflammation and symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  • Patient undergoes a transnasal endoscopic approach surgery to remove the nasal polyps.
  • Recovery period may involve mild discomfort, nasal congestion, and occasional bleeding for a few days.
  • Patient may need to follow post-operative care instructions, such as using nasal saline rinses, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.
  • Patient may experience improved nasal breathing, sense of smell, and overall quality of life following successful removal of nasal polyps.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery?

  2. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery in terms of symptom improvement and recurrence?

  3. How long is the recovery period after nasal polyp removal surgery and what can I expect during this time?

  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or take any medications after the surgery?

  5. How will nasal polyp removal surgery affect my sense of smell and taste?

  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for nasal polyps that I should consider before opting for surgery?

  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments after nasal polyp removal surgery?

  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps after surgery?

  9. Will nasal polyp removal surgery affect my ability to breathe through my nose or speak normally?

  10. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with nasal polyp removal surgery that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Cho IY, Kim JW, Kim HJ, Cho KS. Journal: Iran J Radiol. 2016 May 28;13(3):e35299. doi: 10.5812/iranjradiol.35299. eCollection 2016 Jul. PMID: 27853500