Dear Sir/Dr.,
I have been diagnosed as having a deviated septum by a physician/specialist. He recommends surgery to correct a host of symptoms, such as semi-regular snoring and nighttime post nasal drip. After speaking with the physician's office manager, I am not so sure that surgery is an appropriate "remedy" to my condition. She really got my attention when she spoke of the seriousness of the surgery. What are my alternatives besides getting a second opinion from another physician?
Thanks in advance for the help,
Reply: --------------
I have posted several responses to inquiries regarding deviations of the nasal septum and appropriate treatment. You may find these in the "review" section of the ENT clinic under the titles "deviated septum". Surgery for a deviated nasal septum by itself is a relatively minor operative procedure that can be done under local anesthesia with some sedation and typically takes less than an hour to complete. It is done as an outpatient. I generally recommend that the patient consider taking a week off from work particularly if one engages in heavy lifting or strenuous activities frequently. Those that have relatively sedentary job activities can return earlier. Usually pain is not a significant factor and typically pain medications are only required in the first 2-3 days. There is no external bruising. The physician may use nasal packing for anywhere from 1-3 days although many physicians do not use nasal packing, favoring plastic splints which are applied to either side of the straightened nasal septum and held in place for 5-7 days before being removed in the physician's office. The risks of surgery include unusual bleeding, infection, and perforation of the nasal septum, however these complications are quite uncommon.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
Click here to review
previous Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic consultations