Our Summary

This review paper looks at recent studies on a surgical procedure called extracorporeal septoplasty. This is a technique used to fix severe deformities in the nose, both for practical health reasons and for cosmetic changes. The operation can be done through the nose or from the outside, depending on the exact problem and the surgeon’s skills. The recent research suggests that an external approach might be better. A material named polydioxanone foil is usually used to help rebuild the nose, and this seems to work well. The procedure doesn’t generally lead to many complications, but there can be issues with the position and angle of the tip of the nose if this operation is done without also doing a rhinoplasty (a ’nose job’). Overall, extracorporeal septoplasty is a useful tool for surgeons fixing issues with the nose.

FAQs

  1. What is extracorporeal septoplasty and what deformities does it treat?
  2. What are the advantages of an external approach to extracorporeal septoplasty?
  3. What complications can occur from extracorporeal septoplasty and how can they be avoided?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the head elevated, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty include those with:

  1. Nasal obstruction: Patients experiencing difficulty breathing through their nose due to a deviated septum may benefit from septoplasty to improve airflow.

  2. Recurrent sinus infections: A deviated septum can lead to blockages in the sinus passages, increasing the risk of sinus infections. Septoplasty can help alleviate these symptoms.

  3. Snoring or sleep apnea: A deviated septum can contribute to snoring and sleep apnea by obstructing the airway. Septoplasty may be recommended to improve breathing during sleep.

  4. Facial trauma: Patients who have experienced trauma to the nose resulting in a deviated septum may require septoplasty to correct the alignment of the nasal septum.

  5. Cosmetic concerns: In some cases, septoplasty may be recommended for cosmetic reasons, such as correcting a crooked or asymmetrical nose.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist to determine if septoplasty is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT specialist who performs a physical examination and possibly orders imaging tests to assess the severity of the septal deviation.
  3. ENT specialist recommends septoplasty as a treatment option for correcting the deviated septum.

After Septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
  2. Recovery period typically lasts 1-2 weeks, during which the patient may experience nasal congestion, mild pain, and swelling.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  4. Patients may notice improved breathing and reduced symptoms of nasal congestion within a few weeks post-surgery.
  5. Full recovery and optimal results may take several months, as the nasal tissues continue to heal and settle into their new position.

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 septoplasty improve my breathing or alleviate my symptoms of nasal congestion?
  4. What can I expect in terms of post-operative pain and discomfort?
  5. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  6. Are there any restrictions on activities or diet following septoplasty?
  7. How soon can I expect to see results from septoplasty?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be more suitable for my condition?
  9. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?
  10. What is the success rate of septoplasty in patients with similar conditions to mine?

Reference

Authors: McGrath M, Bell E, Locketz GD, Becker DG. Journal: Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2019 Feb;27(1):1-6. doi: 10.1097/MOO.0000000000000509. PMID: 30507685