Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study on the effectiveness of endoscopic septoplasty, a type of nose surgery. The study looked at patients who had this surgery between 2011 and 2017, either by itself or in combination with other sinus or skull base surgeries. The researchers looked at how many patients had major complications after surgery, like bleeding, tissue adhesions (synechiae), or tears or holes in the septum. Out of 647 patients, only 0.3% had bleeding, 5.2% had synechiae, and 6.2% had septal tears or holes. Incomplete septal correction was observed in 4.2% of the patients. The study concluded that using an endoscope (a type of camera) during surgery helps doctors see better and may reduce complications. The technique could also be a good way to teach other medical professionals.

FAQs

  1. What is endoscopic septoplasty and what does the study say about its effectiveness?
  2. What were the major complications observed in the patients after undergoing endoscopic septoplasty?
  3. How does using an endoscope during surgery help in reducing complications?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities, not blowing the nose forcefully, and keeping the head elevated while sleeping to reduce swelling. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which is a condition where the nasal septum (the wall between the nostrils) is off-center or crooked. This can cause difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, snoring, recurrent sinus infections, and other nasal issues. Septoplasty is recommended for patients who have tried other treatments like medications and nasal sprays but have not found relief. Additionally, patients who have nasal trauma or injury that has caused a deviated septum may also be recommended for septoplasty.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient consults with an otolaryngologist (ENT) to discuss symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, or recurrent sinus infections.
  2. ENT performs a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as a CT scan to assess the nasal septum.
  3. ENT recommends septoplasty as a treatment option for correcting a deviated septum.
  4. Patient schedules surgery and receives pre-operative instructions, including fasting before the procedure.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes about 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and may experience some pain, swelling, and nasal packing or splints to support the septum.
  3. Patient is discharged home the same day or after a short observation period.
  4. Patient follows post-operative instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activities, using saline nasal spray, and taking pain medication as needed.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the ENT to monitor healing and remove any nasal packing or splints.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improved breathing and reduced symptoms over the following weeks and months.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is septoplasty and why do I need it?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications of septoplasty?
  3. What is the success rate of septoplasty in terms of improving my breathing?
  4. What is the recovery process like after septoplasty?
  5. Will I need to take time off work or make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could help with my nasal breathing?
  7. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?
  8. Will I need any additional procedures or surgeries in conjunction with septoplasty?
  9. How long will the effects of septoplasty last?
  10. What should I do if I experience any complications or side effects after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Garzaro M, Dell’Era V, Brucoli M, Boffano P, Benech A, Aluffi Valletti P. Journal: J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2019 Oct;47(10):1530-1534. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2019.07.018. Epub 2019 Jul 19. PMID: 31387832