Our Summary

This research paper looks at how doctors obtain consent from patients before performing a septoplasty (surgery to fix a deviated septum in the nose). The way medical professionals get permission for treatment changed in the UK in 2015, moving away from “the doctor knows best” to giving patients more say in their treatment. The study asked 21 ear, nose, and throat doctors which risks they usually discuss with patients before this surgery, and also asked 103 patients how serious they considered these risks. The study found that most doctors mention almost all risks, except for two: a negative change in sense of smell and numbness of the upper front teeth. However, patients ranked these two complications as serious or very serious. Less than 70% of doctors mentioned these risks. The study concludes that a significant number of doctors aren’t mentioning all the risks that a “reasonable patient” would want to know before having this kind of surgery. This could lead to more complaints or legal claims against doctors, as managing a patient’s reasonable expectations is crucial.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of the research paper on septoplasty?
  2. What two risks did the study find are often not mentioned by doctors before performing a septoplasty?
  3. How could the findings of this study impact doctors and the medical field in general?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to make sure to discuss all potential risks and complications with your doctor before undergoing the surgery. It is important for patients to have a clear understanding of what to expect and to be fully informed before making a decision about their treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum causing symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and recurrent sinus infections. These symptoms can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and may not respond well to conservative treatments such as medication or nasal sprays. In such cases, septoplasty may be recommended to improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms. Additionally, patients with a deviated septum that is causing sleep apnea or snoring may also be recommended for septoplasty to improve their breathing during sleep. Ultimately, the decision to undergo septoplasty is made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, and facial pain
  • Patient visits an ear, nose, and throat doctor who diagnoses a deviated septum and recommends septoplasty
  • Doctor discusses the risks and benefits of the surgery with the patient
  • Patient gives informed consent for the procedure

After septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes the surgery to correct the deviated septum
  • Patient experiences post-operative pain, swelling, and congestion
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by the doctor
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure proper recovery

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after septoplasty involves consultation with a doctor, informed consent, surgery, post-operative care, and follow-up appointments to ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery, including rare or serious side effects?
  2. What is the success rate of septoplasty in improving my breathing and overall nasal function?
  3. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort after the surgery?
  4. Will I need to take time off work or make any lifestyle changes during the recovery process?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or non-surgical options that could potentially improve my condition?
  6. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of nasal appearance and function?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  9. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize the results?
  10. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: Raja H, Talwar R. Journal: Med Leg J. 2021 Dec;89(4):237-240. doi: 10.1177/00258172211042699. Epub 2021 Oct 4. PMID: 34605292