Our Summary

This research paper discusses the difficulties associated with correcting deformities of the nasal septum, which is the wall of cartilage that separates the two nostrils. Traditionally, surgeons have used techniques developed by Killian or Cottle to fix these deformities. However, these methods can be difficult and are not always successful. As a result, surgeons have started using new methods, such as extracorporeal septoplasty or apposition grafts, which involve removing the septum, reshaping it outside the body, and then reinserting it.

This research suggests that these deformities often occur because different parts of the nose grow at different rates. The authors propose a new method of surgery, called septoplasty by disarticulation, which resolves these growth conflicts and restores a level septum. This method also maintains the all-important quadrangular cartilage, which is crucial for the stability of the nose. The paper concludes that this new method can successfully correct nasal septum deformities and improve breathing in patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the traditional method of correcting nasal septum deformities and why is it not always successful?
  2. What are the new methods being used by surgeons to fix nasal septum deformities?
  3. Can you explain the new method of surgery, septoplasty by disarticulation, proposed in the research?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include keeping the nasal passages moist with saline spray, avoiding strenuous activities that could increase nasal pressure, and attending all follow-up appointments. It is also important to refrain from blowing your nose vigorously and to avoid any activities that could potentially damage the healing tissues in the nose. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a successful recovery from septoplasty surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which can cause difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and chronic sinus infections. Septoplasty may also be recommended for patients with nasal deformities or injuries that affect the function of the nose. Additionally, patients who have not seen improvement in their symptoms with conservative treatments such as nasal steroid sprays or allergy medications may be candidates for septoplasty. Ultimately, the decision to undergo septoplasty should be made in consultation with a qualified ENT surgeon who can assess the individual patient’s needs and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring, and frequent sinus infections.
  2. Patient consults with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) who performs a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to assess the severity of the nasal septum deformity.
  3. After confirming the diagnosis of a deviated septum, the patient and surgeon discuss the potential benefits and risks of septoplasty surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and may be advised to stop taking certain medications and avoid eating or drinking before the surgery.

After septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient may experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.
  3. Patient may need to wear nasal splints or packing inside the nose for a few days to support the septum as it heals.
  4. Patient follows post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, including avoiding strenuous activities, blowing the nose gently, and attending follow-up appointments.
  5. Over the following weeks and months, the patient experiences improved breathing, reduced nasal congestion, and a decrease in sinus infections as the nasal septum heals and reshapes.

Overall, septoplasty can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with a deviated septum by relieving symptoms and restoring proper nasal function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is septoplasty and how does it differ from other nasal surgeries?
  2. Am I a good candidate for septoplasty?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  4. What is the recovery process like after septoplasty?
  5. How long will it take for me to see the full results of the surgery?
  6. Will septoplasty improve my ability to breathe through my nose?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could help improve my breathing or correct my nasal deformity?
  8. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?
  9. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous septoplasty patients?
  10. What should I expect during the surgery and how long will it take?

Reference

Authors: Jankowski R, Gallet P, Nguyen DT, Rumeau C. Journal: Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis. 2020 Nov;137(5):423-426. doi: 10.1016/j.anorl.2020.07.014. Epub 2020 Oct 2. PMID: 33020044