Our Summary

This research paper investigates whether using nasal septal splints after septoplasty (surgery to fix a deviated septum) is effective and safe. The researchers looked at studies that compared patients who used these splints after surgery to those who did not.

The main outcomes they were interested in were post-surgery pain, infection, bleeding, hematoma formation (blood clot), synechia (adhesion of tissues), and perforation (holes).

They found that the rate of synechia was significantly lower in the group that used splints. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of pain, infection, bleeding, hematoma, and perforation.

Therefore, the researchers suggest that using nasal septal splints after septoplasty can help prevent synechia without increasing the risk of other complications. This supports the use of these splints, particularly in cases where postoperative synechia is expected.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using nasal septal splints after septoplasty?
  2. What were the main outcomes the researchers were interested in after septoplasty surgery?
  3. Did using nasal septal splints after septoplasty increase the risk of other complications?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including using nasal septal splints if recommended by your surgeon. These splints can help prevent complications such as synechia and promote proper healing after surgery. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty are those with a deviated septum that is causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, recurrent sinus infections, or nosebleeds. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may not improve with conservative treatments such as medications or nasal sprays. Septoplasty is often recommended for patients who have tried other treatments without success and who have a significant deviated septum that is causing their symptoms.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of a deviated septum such as difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, sinus infections, and snoring.
  • Patient consults with an ENT specialist who evaluates their condition and recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.

After septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery to correct the deviated septum.
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  • Patient may be advised to use nasal septal splints to support the healing process and prevent complications such as synechia.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
  • Patient gradually experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms as the septum heals and the nasal passages become more open.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Here are some questions a patient may consider asking their doctor about septoplasty and the use of nasal septal splints:

  1. What is a deviated septum and how does it affect my breathing?
  2. Do I need septoplasty surgery to correct my deviated septum?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications of septoplasty surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty surgery?
  5. Will I need to use nasal septal splints after my septoplasty surgery?
  6. How do nasal septal splints work and what are they made of?
  7. What are the benefits of using nasal septal splints after septoplasty surgery?
  8. Are there any potential side effects or discomfort associated with using nasal septal splints?
  9. How long will I need to use nasal septal splints after my surgery?
  10. Will using nasal septal splints affect my daily activities or work schedule during the recovery period?

Reference

Authors: Kim SJ, Chang DS, Choi MS, Lee HY, Pyo JS. Journal: Am J Otolaryngol. 2021 May-Jun;42(3):102389. doi: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2020.102389. Epub 2020 Jan 3. PMID: 33482562