Our Summary

This study looked at how a type of nose surgery called septoplasty might affect people’s voices. The researchers studied 50 patients who had a deviated nasal septum (a condition where the thin wall between your nostrils is displaced to one side), which can cause breathing problems. The patients’ voices were tested before the surgery, one week after, and one month after. The researchers found that the surgery didn’t significantly affect the patients’ voices. In fact, the voices showed signs of improved sound quality and less nasal sounding speech after the surgery. The researchers used two ways to assess the voices: a software called Dr.Speech and a scoring system called Voice Handicap Index (VHI). The VHI scores were all under 30, which is considered a minimal voice handicap, and didn’t change much over time. In conclusion, the voice changes after this type of nose surgery were small and actually suggested a positive outcome.

FAQs

  1. What is septoplasty and why is it performed?
  2. How does septoplasty impact the voice of the patients?
  3. What methods were used to assess the voice changes after the nose surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to expect some minor changes in their voice post-surgery, but these changes are typically minimal and can even result in improved sound quality and less nasal sounding speech. It’s important to follow post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery process. If you have any concerns about your voice or any other symptoms following septoplasty, be sure to communicate with your healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty are those who have a deviated nasal septum causing breathing problems, chronic nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, or frequent sinus infections. Septoplasty may also be recommended for patients with sleep apnea or snoring issues caused by a deviated septum.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of a deviated nasal septum, such as difficulty breathing, frequent nosebleeds, sinus infections, and snoring.
  • Patient consults with an ENT specialist who recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments, such as physical exams, imaging tests, and blood work.
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient receives instructions on pre-operative preparations, such as fasting and medication adjustments.

After septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty procedure, which typically takes 1-2 hours and is done under general anesthesia.
  • Patient may experience mild pain, swelling, and congestion in the first few days after surgery.
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital or surgical center on the same day or the day after surgery.
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed medications, using nasal sprays, and avoiding strenuous activities.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms of a deviated septum over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  2. What is the recovery process like after septoplasty?
  3. Will septoplasty improve my breathing difficulty and nasal congestion?
  4. How long will it take for me to notice the full benefits of septoplasty?
  5. Will septoplasty affect my sense of smell or taste?
  6. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. Are there any restrictions on activity or diet following septoplasty?
  9. How long do the results of septoplasty typically last?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options for my nasal issues that I should consider before deciding on septoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Kajal P, Aarya R, Singh G, Davessar JL, Kaur K. Journal: Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022 Oct;74(Suppl 2):1831-1835. doi: 10.1007/s12070-020-01860-7. Epub 2020 Apr 20. PMID: 36452526