DEVIATED NASAL SEPTUM

A deviated nasal septum may interfere with breathing, causing or contributing to the following: mouth breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, recurrent sinus infections, frequent nosebleeds, and occasional headaches. Facial pain of nasal origin and earaches may also be related to a deviated nasal septum. A deviated nasal septum may be developmental or result from injury.

TREATMENT

A septoplasty is the operation to correct a deviated nasal septum. The nasal septum separates the interior of the nose into two cavities. It is composed of bone and cartilage.

A septoplasty should not change the outward appearance of the nose. Incisions are made inside the nose providing access to the bone and cartilage. Portions of the septum will be trimmed, reshaped or removed. Support is maintained and maximum breathing space is achieved.

Packing and plastic splints may be placed in the nose to reposition the lining, hold the septum in place, reduce bleeding, and internal scarring. Expect some throat dryness and irritation due to mouth breathing. Pain medication will be prescribed. Avoid products containing aspirin or ibuprofen which may cause bleeding.

The packing is usually removed within 24-72 hours after surgery. This is done in the office. Some temporary discomfort and bleeding are associated with this procedure.

Swelling occurs inside the nose one to two weeks postoperatively and is temporary unless a cold or allergies are present. Crusts and scabs will form. Saline nasal spray is used to cleanse and aid in healing.

The surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. It is done under local or general anesthesia. If local anesthesia is chosen, a sedative is given to aid in relaxation. Tapping, grinding, and scraping sounds are likely to be heard. Under general anesthesia, the entire body will be asleep. General anesthesia involves a higher risk and cost.

Bleeding, infection, or septal perforation (hole in the partition) are complications that may occur during and after surgery. Your doctor will deal with them appropriately.

TURBINATES

Turbinates are curved ridges in the nose that warm and humidify the air you breathe. The turbinates can swell or shrink with various conditions. Enlarged turbinates can block the inside of the nose interfering with breathing and adequate sinus drainage. Your doctor may recommend trimming or cauterizing the turbinates when the septoplasty is performed. Just enough turbinate bone and mucosa will be removed to increase breathing space and allow he turbinates to function properly.