Our Summary

This research paper compares two types of surgery used to fix a crooked or deviated nasal septum - the wall between your nostrils. The traditional method, called conventional septoplasty, has been used for years, but it has some drawbacks such as limited visibility during surgery, poor lighting, the need for nasal packing (stuffing gauze or cotton into the nose to control bleeding), and difficulty in assessing the exact problem. These issues are also present in a newer method called endoscopic septoplasty.

The researchers looked at data from 13 different studies involving 735 patients to see which method was better. They found that endoscopic septoplasty was significantly better than the traditional method in terms of relieving blocked noses after surgery, reducing bleeding during and after surgery, and reducing complications such as mucosal adhesion and synechiae (abnormal tissue growth), persistent septal deviation (where the septum remains crooked), and septal tear. These advantages were seen in both long-term and short-term follow-ups.

In simpler terms, if you need surgery to fix a deviated septum, endoscopic septoplasty might be a better option as it can provide better results and has fewer complications compared to the traditional method.

FAQs

  1. What are the drawbacks of the traditional method of septoplasty?
  2. How does endoscopic septoplasty compare with the traditional method in terms of surgery outcomes?
  3. Which method of septoplasty may be a better option for correcting a deviated septum according to the research?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to consider opting for endoscopic septoplasty over conventional septoplasty for better results and fewer complications. Endoscopic septoplasty has been shown to be more effective in relieving blocked noses, reducing bleeding, and minimizing complications in both the short and long term. It may be worth discussing this option with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated nasal septum that is causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, chronic nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, loud breathing or snoring during sleep, recurrent sinus infections, or headaches. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may indicate the need for surgical intervention to correct the underlying issue. Endoscopic septoplasty may be recommended for patients who are looking for a more advanced and effective surgical option with better outcomes and fewer complications.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of a deviated septum such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and snoring.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist who recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments such as physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests to determine the severity of the deviation and plan the surgery.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes endoscopic septoplasty surgery, where the surgeon uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize and correct the deviated septum.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and congestion in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient is advised to avoid strenuous activities, blowing the nose, and heavy lifting during the recovery period.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Patient experiences improved nasal breathing, reduced congestion, and relief from other symptoms associated with a deviated septum.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Here are some questions a patient should ask their doctor about septoplasty:

  1. What are the differences between traditional septoplasty and endoscopic septoplasty?
  2. Which method do you recommend for my specific case and why?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  4. How long is the recovery period for each type of surgery?
  5. Will I need nasal packing after surgery, and if so, for how long?
  6. How soon can I expect to see improvement in my breathing after surgery?
  7. What is the success rate of each method in correcting a deviated septum?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to improve the outcome?
  10. Can you provide me with information on your experience and success rate with performing septoplasty procedures?

Reference

Authors: Besharah BO, Alharbi HA, Abu Suliman OA, Althobaiti HK, Mogharbel AM, Muathen SH. Journal: Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2023 Jun 20;85(8):4015-4025. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000000984. eCollection 2023 Aug. PMID: 37554910