I have just learned that my second septoplasty (& partial turbinectomy) was not able to heal the perforations discovered (a result of the first, I'm sure) and I will have to have another. My current ENT is the most respected in the city, he just wasn't prepared for the damage he encountered. I am looking for a sure fire way to fix the problem (prosthetic septum?) so this next procedure will be my last. Are there any alternate therapies or surgeries available? If you can help, please e-mail me, or contact me at my office....
I appreciate your time,
Reply: ----------------------
There are a number of surgical approaches to correcting a nasal septal perforation including local mucosal flaps to reconstruct the septum, free tissue grafts of cartilage,fascia, etc. Large septal perforations 2-3 cm are difficult to close surgically. Some septal perforations do not require any treatment other than regular use of nasal emollient or saline to prevent crusting. Some septal perforations cause bothersome symptoms including airway obstruction because of crusting; recurrent nosebleeds; audible whistling in the nose during breathing; etc. If there are bothersome symptoms which fail to respond to simple nasal emollients, and the perforation is relatively small, surgery is a reasonable option. Large perforations often are best treated with placement of an artificial prosthesis known as a "septal button".
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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.
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