Our Summary

Septoplasty is a common surgical procedure performed to alleviate chronic nasal blockage caused by a deviated septum. This study reviewed existing research to determine if patients experienced long-term relief from their symptoms and were satisfied with the results of their surgery. After looking at over 2,000 articles, the researchers found that satisfaction levels varied greatly, with some studies reporting satisfaction rates as high as 100% and others as low as 50%. Methods of measuring symptom relief also varied, and while some improvement was generally reported, the procedure was far from perfect. The researchers concluded that more high-quality studies, including randomized controlled trials, are needed to better understand the effectiveness of septoplasty. This could help doctors provide more accurate information to patients and develop better guidelines for when to recommend surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is septoplasty and why is it performed?
  2. What were the results of the review study regarding patient satisfaction levels after septoplasty?
  3. What did the researchers conclude about the effectiveness of septoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. While many patients do experience relief from nasal blockage and improved breathing after septoplasty, it is important to understand that results can vary and complete resolution of symptoms is not guaranteed. It is also important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and maximize the benefits of the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty include those who experience chronic nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent sinus infections, and snoring or sleep apnea. These symptoms are often caused by a deviated septum, which is when the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils is crooked or off-center. Septoplasty can help straighten the septum, improve airflow, and alleviate these symptoms. Patients who have tried non-surgical treatments such as nasal sprays, decongestants, and allergy medications without success may be candidates for septoplasty. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and medical history with an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) to determine if septoplasty is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences chronic nasal blockage, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms related to a deviated septum.
  2. Patient sees an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for evaluation and diagnosis of the deviated septum.
  3. ENT specialist recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.

After Septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery to correct the deviated septum.
  2. Patient experiences post-operative symptoms such as nasal congestion, swelling, and pain.
  3. Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon, including nasal irrigation and avoiding strenuous activities.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  5. Over time, patient may experience gradual improvement in nasal breathing and reduction in symptoms related to the deviated septum.
  6. Patient may require additional treatments or revisions if symptoms persist or worsen after surgery.

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 and what can I expect during this time?
  3. What are the expected outcomes of septoplasty in terms of symptom relief and improvement in quality of life?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be considered instead of septoplasty?
  5. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures and what is your success rate?
  6. What is the likelihood of needing revision surgery in the future after septoplasty?
  7. Will septoplasty improve my ability to breathe through my nose and reduce symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, and snoring?
  8. How long do the results of septoplasty typically last?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after septoplasty to optimize the outcome?
  10. Can you provide me with any patient testimonials or references from individuals who have undergone septoplasty with you?

Reference

Authors: Tsang CLN, Nguyen T, Sivesind T, Cervin A. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2018 May;275(5):1039-1048. doi: 10.1007/s00405-018-4874-y. Epub 2018 Jan 13. PMID: 29332171