Our Summary

This article discusses the effects of a surgical procedure called septoplasty on children. Septoplasty is a surgery that helps correct a deviated septum, a condition where the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nostrils is displaced to one side. This surgery can be of concern in children, as the nasal septum plays a crucial role in facial growth and development.

The researchers reviewed existing studies and provided an overview of the development of the nasal skeleton from infancy through to adulthood. They also discussed the nasal growth process and the role of the cartilaginous septum, a part of the nose.

The study found that a part of the septoplasty procedure, which involves lifting a layer of tissue in the nose, doesn’t harm facial growth. However, the researchers suggest that it’s easier to stabilize the septum if this procedure is done on one side only. They also advise against lifting the tissue at the base of the nose to avoid damaging nerves.

The researchers also recommend that surgeons be careful when making corrections or removing parts of the cartilaginous septum, and should avoid separating the septal cartilage from the perpendicular plate, especially at the back, as this is important for the length and height of the nasal septum and back of the nose.

In conclusion, the study suggests that if a child has severe breathing problems due to septal deviation, septoplasty should be performed. In most cases, the surgery can be done in children as young as 6 years old. However, if necessary, it can be performed in younger children or even at birth.

FAQs

  1. What is the potential impact of pediatric septoplasties on nasoseptal growth?
  2. What are the considerations to be taken into account during septoplasty procedures to avoid potential damage?
  3. At what age is it generally safe to conduct septal surgery in children?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including avoiding strenuous activities and not blowing your nose for a certain period of time to allow for proper healing. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Pediatric patients with severe breathing problems related to septal deviation are typically recommended septoplasty. In the majority of cases, septal surgery may be conducted in 6-year-old children. However, if necessary, septal surgery may be performed in younger children and even at birth. It is important to carefully consider the potential impact on nasoseptal growth process and avoid damaging the growing and supporting zones of the nasal skeleton during the procedure.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, headaches, and snoring.
  • Patient consults with an ENT specialist who may recommend septoplasty after a physical examination and possibly imaging tests.
  • Pre-operative appointments are scheduled to discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery process.
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work and ECG.
  • Patient is instructed to stop certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding risk.
  • Patient may be advised to stop smoking and avoid alcohol consumption before surgery.

After Septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes about 1-2 hours under general anesthesia.
  • Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any complications.
  • Patient may experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising around the nose and eyes in the days following surgery.
  • Patient is prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for 1-2 weeks.
  • Patient may need to use saline nasal sprays or irrigation to keep the nasal passages moist and clean.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and remove any packing or sutures.
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences improved nasal breathing over the coming weeks and months.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the specific reasons why I need septoplasty?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for septoplasty?
  4. Will septoplasty improve my breathing or alleviate my symptoms?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of septoplasty?
  6. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. How long will the effects of septoplasty last?
  8. Will septoplasty affect the appearance of my nose or face in any way?
  9. Are there any specific restrictions or precautions I should follow before or after septoplasty?
  10. What can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort during and after the septoplasty procedure?

Reference

Authors: Cingi C, Muluk NB, Ulusoy S, Lopatin A, Şahin E, Passali D, Bellussi L, Atilla H, Hanci D, Altıntoprak N, Rusetski Y, Sarafoleanu C, Mladina R, Kalogjera L, Manea C. Journal: Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2016 Mar-Apr;30(2):e42-7. doi: 10.2500/ajra.2016.30.4289. PMID: 26980385