Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a very safe procedure, but before having this done, there are some things you ought to know.
Any surgical procedure may have complications, both major or minor. Although relatively safe, there have been deaths related to septoplasty. The main risks are related to being put to sleep (eg. A reaction to the medication used to induce anesthesia, or trouble inserting the breathing tube), and spinal fluid leak.
Surgical repair of the deviated nasal septum is done by lifting up the lining of the nasal septum and straightening out the bone and cartilage underneath. In the process, tissue is removed and remodeled to achieve the result. Often, the turbinates may also be reduced to improve the ability to breathe, if they are enlarged.
The normal postoperative course includes two weeks of swelling, and stuffy nose. The nose is also tender for several days after surgery. Sometimes, splints or packing are placed in the nose during surgery for various reasons. This should be removed within 1 week after surgery, and is done in the office.
Spinal fluid leak is very uncommon after septoplasty, but it has been reported. The symptoms of this are a clear drainage from the nose, particularly when tilting the head forward. If you have concerns about this, you should inform you physician and be seen by them.
After surgery, you should use saline spray in your nose at least every 3 hours while awake until you are seen in the office (you cannot overuse the saline spray). This may be obtained at the pharmacy as an over-the-counter product. There are two commercially available products named AYR and Ocean. There are also generic products available. Use of this spray helps to keep the nose clean and moist. Drying in the nose after surgery can lead to crusting and more nasal congestion. Afrin spray may be used for minor bleeding. Call the office for excessive bleeding.
ACTIVITY: The patient should also avoid strenuous activity for 10 days after surgery including lifting, sports, swimming, etc.
FEVER: Postoperative fever is also not uncommon for the first 2 days after surgery and is not cause for alarm. Any persistence of the fever past postoperative day 3 should be investigated.
Other symptoms which may be present after surgery that will resolve include nausea and vomiting, headache, poor appetite, loss of energy, etc.
POST OP MEDICATION: Your doctor may give you medications for pain, nausea, ear drops, or antibiotics to use after surgery. Be sure to review those and notify the staff if there are any medication allergies before you leave the surgery center. Take them as prescribed unless problems develop, in which case, call the office the next morning and receive further instructions.
Ear, Nose and Throat Physicians of North MS PA