Our Summary

This study compared two methods of surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum, a common condition where the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity is off-center or crooked. The traditional method involves an “open” approach, while the second method uses an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it.

The researchers observed 276 patients who underwent either of the two surgeries between 2011 and 2018. They then compared the results from both groups 3 months after surgery, looking at complications such as bleeding, pain, incomplete correction, and objective measurements of nasal airflow. They also asked patients to fill out questionnaires about their symptoms and quality of life.

The results showed that both methods are effective in reducing symptoms such as nasal obstruction and discharge. However, complications like pain, early postoperative bleeding, and incomplete correction were less common in the group that had endoscopic surgery. Both groups had improved nasal airflow, and patients reported symptom relief and improved quality of life. There was no significant difference in these results between the two groups.

The study concluded that both methods are effective, but the endoscopic approach has fewer overall complications. This method also provides a better view of the surgical area, causes less damage to the nasal lining, and is more precise. The endoscopic approach could also be a valuable teaching tool for medical students and trainees.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between traditional septoplasty and endoscopic septoplasty?
  2. Are there fewer complications with the endoscopic approach compared to the traditional approach?
  3. Does the endoscopic approach to septoplasty provide better results in terms of symptom relief and quality of life improvement?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the nasal passages clear and avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who are suffering from a deviated nasal septum (DNS) causing symptoms such as nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, and related symptoms. The study mentioned above included 276 patients with DNS who underwent traditional or endoscopic septoplasty, with both techniques showing effectiveness in reducing nasal obstruction and related symptoms. Complications such as pain, synechiae, bleeding, septal tears, and incomplete correction were found to be less frequent in the endoscopic group. Overall, septoplasty can provide symptom relief and improve quality of life for patients with DNS.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
  • Patient may have undergone diagnostic tests such as a nasal endoscopy or CT scan to confirm the presence of a deviated nasal septum.
  • Patient consults with an otolaryngologist to discuss treatment options, including septoplasty.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations such as blood tests and medication adjustments.

After Septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, either traditional or endoscopic approach, to correct the deviated nasal septum.
  • Patient experiences post-operative symptoms such as pain, swelling, and nasal congestion.
  • Patient may require pain medication and nasal saline rinses to manage post-operative symptoms.
  • Patient follows up with the surgeon for post-operative appointments to monitor healing and address any complications.
  • Patient gradually experiences improved nasal breathing and reduction in symptoms such as snoring and sinus infections.
  • Patient completes subjective questionnaires to assess symptoms relief and quality of life improvements post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty surgery?
  3. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments after the septoplasty?
  4. How will septoplasty surgery improve my symptoms of nasal obstruction and discharge?
  5. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow any specific post-operative instructions?
  6. Are there any alternatives to septoplasty that I should consider?
  7. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty surgery, particularly with the endoscopic approach?
  8. What is the success rate of septoplasty surgery in terms of correcting nasal septum deviation?
  9. How soon after surgery can I expect to see improvement in my symptoms?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of following septoplasty surgery?

Reference

Authors: Garzaro M, Dell’Era V, Riva G, Raimondo L, Pecorari G, Aluffi Valletti P. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2019 Jun;276(6):1707-1711. doi: 10.1007/s00405-019-05393-w. Epub 2019 Mar 20. PMID: 30895435