Our Summary

This study looks at the effects of a surgical procedure called septoplasty on children with a certain type of nose problem. The researchers looked back at 100 patients, both boys and girls, aged 3 to 18 years old, who had this surgery at a local hospital and were followed for 7 years. The surgery was often combined with another procedure called cauterization of the inferior turbinate. The team checked on the patients after the surgery with a special kind of nose examination.

Out of all the patients, the majority were boys (60%) and the rest were girls (40%). Almost all of them (92%) had the cauterization procedure. Importantly, there were no problems during any of the surgeries. The researchers checked on the patients 15, 30, and 60 days after the procedure.

In conclusion, the researchers found that when done correctly, septoplasty in children is a good thing. It allows for proper growth and development of the face and skull, and prevents mental and physical problems in young patients. This study supports previous research suggesting that this surgery can be recommended for patients before they turn 17 or 18 years old.

FAQs

  1. What is the age range of the children included in this septoplasty study?
  2. What additional procedure was often combined with septoplasty in this study?
  3. What are the potential benefits of septoplasty in children according to this study?

Doctor’s Tip

After undergoing septoplasty, it is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping your head elevated while sleeping, and taking prescribed medications as directed. Additionally, make sure to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal results from your septoplasty procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which is a condition where the nasal septum is crooked or off-center. This can cause breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and sinus infections. Septoplasty is often recommended for patients who have tried other conservative treatments, such as nasal sprays or allergy medications, without success. Additionally, patients with facial pain, headaches, and sleep disturbances due to their nasal obstruction may also benefit from septoplasty. Overall, septoplasty is recommended for patients who have significant symptoms and impairments in their daily life due to their nasal issues.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, and snoring.
  2. Patient may undergo a physical examination and nasal endoscopy to determine the extent of the septal deviation.
  3. Patient may undergo imaging tests such as a CT scan to further evaluate the nasal anatomy.
  4. Patient may be advised to try conservative treatments such as nasal decongestants, nasal steroid sprays, and allergy medications before considering surgery.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient will undergo the surgical procedure to straighten the deviated septum and improve nasal airflow.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and nasal congestion immediately after surgery.
  3. Patient will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow post-operative care instructions to promote healing.
  4. Patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Patient may experience improved nasal breathing, decreased sinus infections, and overall better quality of life following successful septoplasty.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about septoplasty include:

  1. What is septoplasty and why is it recommended for me or my child?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  3. What is the success rate of septoplasty in treating the specific nose problem I or my child have?
  4. What is the recovery process like after septoplasty and how long will it take to fully recover?
  5. Will additional procedures, such as cauterization of the inferior turbinate, be necessary in conjunction with septoplasty?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing septoplasty?
  7. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your experience with this surgery?
  8. What changes or improvements can I expect in my or my child’s breathing and overall quality of life after septoplasty?
  9. What follow-up appointments or care will be needed after the surgery?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations to be aware of after undergoing septoplasty, especially in children?

Reference

Authors: Yaseen NK. Journal: Pol Merkur Lekarski. 2023;51(2):140-143. doi: 10.36740/Merkur202302106. PMID: 37254761