Our Summary

The researchers conducted a review of medical literature to compare nose surgery techniques used for children with cleft lips and palates (an opening or split in the upper lip and roof of the mouth at birth) and adults. They found significant differences. Specifically, the surgery for children with cleft conditions is less extensive and usually involves adjustments to the front and lower parts of the septum (the wall that separates the two nostrils). The techniques used for adults, on the other hand, involve a more extensive exposure and adjustments to the septum, sometimes involving the removal of cartilage or bone. Given these differences, the researchers propose a new term, “septal reset”, to describe the less invasive surgery performed on children with cleft conditions.

FAQs

  1. What is the main difference between nose surgery techniques used for children with cleft lips and palates and adults?
  2. What does the term “septal reset” mean in the context of this study?
  3. What does the surgery for adults with cleft conditions involve, according to the researchers?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about septoplasty is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the nasal passages moist with saline spray, avoiding strenuous activities that could increase blood pressure, and attending all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. It is also important to avoid blowing your nose forcefully and to refrain from touching or picking at the surgical site to prevent complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which can cause difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and snoring. Septoplasty may also be recommended for patients who have chronic sinus infections or sleep apnea that is caused by a deviated septum.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, and snoring
  • Patient consults with an otolaryngologist (ENT) to discuss symptoms and potential treatment options
  • ENT conducts a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as a CT scan to assess the structure of the septum
  • ENT recommends septoplasty as a treatment option to correct a deviated septum and improve nasal airflow

After Septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes about 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia
  • Patient may experience mild pain, swelling, and nasal congestion in the days following surgery
  • Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for about 1-2 weeks post-surgery
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the ENT to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Patient gradually experiences improved nasal airflow and relief from symptoms such as nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose

Overall, septoplasty can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life by addressing symptoms related to a deviated septum and restoring proper nasal function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time after septoplasty surgery?
  3. Will septoplasty surgery improve my breathing and reduce my symptoms, such as congestion or snoring?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could help with my nasal issues?
  5. How many septoplasty surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  7. Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
  8. How long will the results of the septoplasty surgery last?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous septoplasty patients you have treated?

Reference

Authors: Park JJ, Rodriguez Colon R, Arias FD, Laspro M, Chaya BF, Rochlin DH, Staffenberg DA, Flores RL. Journal: Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2023 Dec;60(12):1645-1654. doi: 10.1177/10556656221113997. Epub 2022 Jul 15. PMID: 35837698