Our Summary

This research paper is about managing injuries to the bone and cartilage in the nose (nasoseptal fractures). These injuries are often treated either by non-surgical reduction (resetting the bone and cartilage without cutting open the skin) or by a surgical procedure called septoplasty. The researchers wanted to compare the outcomes of these two different treatments.

They looked at studies about adults who were treated for these fractures within 3 weeks of their injury. They found 27 relevant studies that included data on more than 1,000 patients. On average, these patients were about 30 years old.

The researchers found that patients who were treated with non-surgical reduction were more likely to have continued problems with breathing through the nose (persistent obstruction) compared to those who had surgery. They were also more likely to need additional surgery within 3 years.

In conclusion, the researchers found that patients who had nose injuries and were treated with surgery in the early stages were less likely to have complications. However, they recommend further research to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is septoplasty and how does it compare to non-surgical reduction for nasoseptal fractures?
  2. What were the main findings of the research on managing injuries to the bone and cartilage in the nose?
  3. What are the potential complications of non-surgical reduction for nasoseptal fractures according to the research?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal area clean, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to the doctor to ensure proper healing and optimal outcomes.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are experiencing persistent nasal obstruction or breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum are recommended septoplasty. Additionally, patients who have suffered a nasal injury or trauma resulting in a nasoseptal fracture may also be recommended septoplasty for treatment. Septoplasty may also be recommended for patients who have chronic sinus issues or recurrent sinus infections that are not responding to other treatments. Ultimately, the decision to undergo septoplasty will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms and medical history, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences a nasal injury, such as a nasoseptal fracture.
  2. Patient may have symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal obstruction, or pain.
  3. Patient seeks medical attention and is evaluated by a healthcare provider.
  4. Treatment options are discussed, including non-surgical reduction or septoplasty.
  5. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for surgery.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery to correct the nasal injury.
  2. Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort immediately following the surgery.
  3. Patient is monitored in the hospital for a period of time before being discharged.
  4. Patient follows post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications and avoiding certain activities.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  6. Patient gradually experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms of nasal obstruction.
  7. Patient may need additional surgery within 3 years if complications arise.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after septoplasty involves seeking medical attention for a nasal injury, undergoing surgery to correct the injury, and following post-operative care to ensure proper healing and recovery.

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 I need to take time off work or avoid certain activities after the procedure?
  4. How long will the results of septoplasty last?
  5. Will septoplasty improve my ability to breathe through my nose?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments to septoplasty that I should consider?
  7. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  9. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  10. What should I expect during the post-operative follow-up appointments?

Reference

Authors: Wadsworth EW, Duckett KA, Nguyen SA, Patel KG. Journal: Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2025 Feb;172(2):386-398. doi: 10.1002/ohn.1007. Epub 2024 Nov 22. PMID: 39575653