Our Summary

This research paper looks at a surgical procedure called extracorporeal septoplasty, which is used to fix crooked noses. The procedure involves removing part of or the entire septum (the thin wall in the nose that separates the nostrils), straightening it, and then replacing it. The study retrospectively analyzed 30 cases of people with crooked noses who underwent this procedure between March 2020 and August 2022.

The study found that the procedure was successful in most cases, using septal cartilage (cartilage from the septum) to reconstruct the septum in 90% of the cases. In some other cases, cartilage from the rib (costal cartilage) and the outer ear (conchal cartilage) was used.

The researchers concluded that extracorporeal septoplasty is a good surgical option for correcting highly deviated or crooked noses, as it gives a good view of the whole septum, ensuring good functional and aesthetic outcomes (how the nose works and looks after surgery) with fewer complications.

FAQs

  1. What is extracorporeal septoplasty and what does it involve?
  2. What materials are used in reconstructing the septum during extracorporeal septoplasty?
  3. What are the benefits and outcomes of extracorporeal septoplasty for correcting crooked noses?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal area clean, and attending all follow-up appointments. This will help ensure a successful recovery and optimal results from the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty include those with:

  1. Deviated septum: A deviated septum is a common condition where the thin wall between the nostrils is crooked or off-center, causing difficulty breathing through the nose. Septoplasty can help straighten the septum and improve airflow.

  2. Chronic nasal congestion: Patients who experience chronic nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose due to a deviated septum may benefit from septoplasty to improve airflow and alleviate symptoms.

  3. Recurrent sinus infections: Patients who suffer from recurrent sinus infections may have a deviated septum that is contributing to their condition. Septoplasty can help improve the drainage of the sinuses and reduce the frequency of infections.

  4. Nasal trauma: Patients who have experienced nasal trauma, such as a broken nose, may have a deviated septum that requires surgical correction. Septoplasty can help restore the normal structure of the nose and improve breathing.

  5. Sleep apnea: In some cases, a deviated septum can contribute to sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. Septoplasty may be recommended as part of the treatment plan for sleep apnea to improve airflow and breathing during sleep.

Overall, patients who have symptoms related to a deviated septum, such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or recurrent sinus infections, may be recommended septoplasty to correct the underlying structural issue and improve nasal function.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms like nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and frequent sinus infections due to a deviated septum.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist who recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  3. Pre-operative appointments and tests are scheduled to ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Patient is advised to stop taking certain medications that may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
  5. Patient is instructed on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes 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 congestion.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital on the same day or the next day, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.
  4. Patient is prescribed pain medications and antibiotics to prevent infection.
  5. Patient is advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow post-operative care instructions, such as keeping the head elevated and avoiding blowing the nose.
  6. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and to remove any nasal packing or splints.
  7. Patient gradually experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms of nasal congestion over the following weeks and months.
  8. Patient may undergo additional procedures, such as rhinoplasty, to further enhance the appearance of the nose, if desired.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific issues with my nose can septoplasty address?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  3. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty?
  4. Will septoplasty improve my ability to breathe through my nose?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  6. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. Will septoplasty change the shape or appearance of my nose?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of septoplasty?
  9. How soon after the surgery can I return to my normal activities?
  10. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or attend follow-up appointments?

Reference

Authors: Pradhan P, Kharwanlang M, Preetam C, Parida PK. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2024 May;48(9):1715-1721. doi: 10.1007/s00266-023-03589-4. Epub 2023 Aug 21. PMID: 37605016