Our Summary

This research paper discusses two studies conducted in 2019 and 2023 about septoplasty, a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition where the thin wall between your nostrils is displaced to one side. The studies were done because some people in the healthcare field questioned the effectiveness of the procedure.

Both studies found that patients who had the surgery had better results than those who did not. The paper doesn’t challenge these findings or the general belief among nose doctors (rhinologists) that septoplasty is very beneficial for the right patients. However, it advises caution in interpreting the results of these studies and applying them to everyday clinical practice.

The authors take issue with the claim made by one of the studies that their results should be applicable to all patients with nasal blockage due to a deviated septum. In simpler terms, just because the procedure worked well in these studies, it doesn’t mean it will work for everyone with a deviated septum.

FAQs

  1. What were the results of the randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on septoplasty conducted in 2019 and 2023?
  2. Why has the value of septoplasty been questioned by policymakers, health insurance carriers, and health care providers?
  3. Can the results from the RCTs on septoplasty be applicable to all patients with nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal passages moist with saline spray, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. It is also important to be patient with the recovery process, as it can take several weeks for swelling and discomfort to fully subside.

Suitable For

However, it is important to note that not all patients with nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum may benefit from septoplasty. Typically, patients who are recommended for septoplasty are those who have tried conservative treatments such as nasal sprays, allergy medications, and nasal dilators, but have not experienced significant improvement in their symptoms.

Additionally, patients who have symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, and recurrent sinus infections may be good candidates for septoplasty. Patients with a deviated septum that is causing significant obstruction of the nasal airway may also benefit from septoplasty.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) to determine if septoplasty is the best course of treatment for their specific condition. The decision to undergo septoplasty should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and overall health.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT specialist who recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, including a physical exam, imaging studies, and blood tests.
  4. Surgery date is scheduled and patient receives instructions on pre-operative preparations.

After Septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes about 1-2 hours under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient may experience post-operative pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient is given instructions on post-operative care, including medication management, nasal irrigation, and avoiding strenuous activities.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient gradually experiences improved nasal breathing, reduced snoring, and decreased sinus infections over the following weeks and months.
  6. Patient may need to continue using nasal decongestants and saline sprays as recommended by the surgeon for optimal results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?

  2. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty?

  3. Will septoplasty completely alleviate my nasal obstruction or will I still experience some degree of symptoms?

  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered for my nasal obstruction?

  5. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?

  6. What can I expect in terms of pain management following the procedure?

  7. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions to ensure successful healing?

  8. How soon after the procedure can I expect to see improvements in my breathing and nasal function?

  9. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing septoplasty?

  10. How likely is it that I will need revision septoplasty in the future?

Reference

Authors: Sunnergren O, Alexandersson C, Eliasson F, Jangard M, Lilja Y, Sandelin K, Ahlstrom Emanuelsson C. Journal: Rhinology. 2024 Aug 1;62(4):509-510. doi: 10.4193/Rhin23.472. PMID: 38416120