Name of the Procedure:

Septoplasty or Submucous Resection, with or without Cartilage Scoring, Contouring, or Replacement with Graft

Summary

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum, the wall between the two nostrils. Depending on the case, it might involve reshaping, repositioning, or replacing parts of the septal cartilage.

Purpose

• Addresses deviated septum, which can cause nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and recurrent sinus infections.
• Aims to improve airflow, ease breathing, and enhance quality of life.

Indications

• Chronic nasal obstruction
• Recurrent nasal or sinus infections
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Breathing difficulties that affect sleep (e.g., snoring or sleep apnea)
• Headaches due to nasal obstruction

Preparation

• Fasting for several hours before the procedure (as per doctor's instructions)
• Avoiding certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) prior to surgery
• Preoperative assessments including nasal exams, imaging studies (like CT scans), and lab tests

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Typically general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
2. Incision: A small incision is made inside one side of the nose.
3. Resection/Reshaping: The mucous membrane is lifted, and the deviated septal cartilage/bone is corrected by trimming, repositioning, or removing obstructions.
4. Grafting (if needed): Graft material may be used to replace or bolster cartilage.
5. Closure: Mucous membrane is repositioned, and the incision is closed with sutures.

Duration

Approximately 30 to 90 minutes.

Setting

Hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon)
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses and support staff

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Persistent septal deviation or obstruction
• Perforation of the septum
• Altered sense of smell
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Improved nasal airflow and breathing
• Reduced nasal congestion and sinus infections
• Enhancement in overall quality of life
• Benefits can often be realized within a few weeks post-surgery

Recovery

• Nasal splints or packing may be used to support the septum as it heals.
• Instructions to avoid blowing the nose, heavy lifting, or strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Use of saline sprays and prescribed medications to aid healing.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring and suture removal (if applicable).
• Typical recovery time: 1-2 weeks for initial healing, with full recovery in 3-6 months.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments such as nasal corticosteroids or decongestants.
• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea.
• Pros: Non-invasive, avoids surgical risks.
• Cons: Often temporary relief, does not correct structural issues.

Patient Experience

• During: No sensation due to anesthesia.
• After: Mild to moderate discomfort, congestion, possible swelling, and nasal drainage.
• Pain management through prescribed medications and comfort measures.