Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Foreign Body, Intranasal; by Lateral Rhinotomy
Common names include: Foreign body extraction from the nose, lateral rhinotomy, nasal surgery for object removal.

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a foreign object lodged in the nasal cavity through an incision made along the side of the nose. This method allows for direct access to the nasal passages for effective and safe removal of the object.

Purpose

The procedure addresses the presence of a foreign body in the nasal cavity, which can cause discomfort, infection, and obstruction of breathing. The goal is to remove the object safely, alleviate symptoms, and prevent any potential complications such as infection or damage to nasal structures.

Indications

• Persistent nasal discomfort or pain
• Nasal obstruction leading to breathing difficulties
• Recurrent infections or nosebleeds
• Unsuccessful non-surgical attempts to remove the foreign body
• Radiographic evidence of a foreign body in the nasal cavity

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a certain period before the procedure if general anesthesia is used.
• Medications that affect blood clotting may need to be adjusted.
• Preoperative assessments such as imaging studies (CT scan or X-ray) to determine the precise location of the foreign body are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned appropriately, and anesthesia is administered, usually general anesthesia for comfort and immobility.
2. An incision is made along the lateral side of the nose to access the nasal cavity.
3. Careful dissection is performed to reach the foreign body without damaging surrounding tissues.
4. The foreign body is identified and gently removed using specialized surgical instruments.
5. The incision is then closed with sutures, and the area is dressed to promote healing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and location of the foreign body.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Damage to nasal structures
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Rarely, recurrence of the foreign body

Benefits

• Immediate relief from nasal discomfort and obstruction
• Prevention of further complications such as infection or chronic sinusitis
• Improvement in breathing and nasal function

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes keeping the head elevated and avoiding strenuous activities.
• Pain management typically involves prescribed medications.
• Patients may need to follow up with their surgeon to monitor healing.
• Recovery time varies but usually includes a week or two for initial healing and several weeks for full recovery.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical removal through nasal endoscopy, if the foreign body is accessible and the patient is cooperative.
• Watchful waiting, if the foreign body is small and not causing significant symptoms.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, under general anesthesia, the patient will be unconscious and not feel any pain. After the procedure, they may experience some pain and swelling at the surgical site, managed with medication. Activities may be restricted during the initial recovery period, and follow-up visits will be necessary to ensure proper healing.