Name of the Procedure:

Control of Nasal Hemorrhage, Posterior; Initial (Posterior Nasal Packing and/or Cautery)

Summary

This procedure is used to stop bleeding from the back part of the nasal cavity. It involves inserting special packs into the nose or applying heat to seal blood vessels.

Purpose

The procedure is aimed at stopping severe nosebleeds that originate from the back part of the nasal cavity. The goal is to control bleeding, prevent further blood loss, and stabilize the patient.

Indications

• Persistent nosebleeds that do not stop with initial treatments
• Bleeding from the posterior nasal cavity
• In cases where less invasive measures (like anterior packing) have failed
• Conditions like hypertension or clotting disorders that make nasal bleeding more likely

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure.
• Blood tests may be needed to check clotting function.
• Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, especially blood thinners.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is usually positioned sitting up.
2. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the nasal area.
3. Posterior nasal packs are inserted deep into the nasal cavity to apply pressure and stop bleeding.
4. In some cases, cautery (applying heat) may be used to seal the bleeding vessels.
5. The packs are left in place for a period, typically 24-72 hours, depending on the severity of the bleeding.

Duration

The procedure itself typically takes around 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an emergency room, hospital, or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) specialist or emergency physician
• Nurses for assistance
• Anesthesiologist if general anesthesia or sedation is required

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or pain during the procedure
• Risk of infection
• Possible re-bleeding after removal of packs
• Nasal congestion or breathing difficulties
• Rare complications may include sinusitis or toxic shock syndrome

Benefits

• Immediate control of severe nosebleeds
• Prevention of further blood loss
• Stabilization of patient condition

Recovery

• Patients are typically observed for a period after the procedure.
• Instructions will be given on how to care for the nasal packs.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.
• Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities and nose-blowing for a few days.

Alternatives

• Anterior nasal packing for less severe cases
• Medication to help reduce bleeding
• Surgery if the bleeding source needs to be directly addressed
• Each alternative has its own pros and cons, such as varying levels of invasiveness, discomfort, and effectiveness.

Patient Experience

• The patient might feel initial discomfort or pressure during the insertion of nasal packs.
• Pain management will be provided through local anesthesia or sedatives.
• Post-procedure, there may be some discomfort or difficulty breathing through the nose, which can be managed with pain relief measures and guidance from healthcare professionals.