Septoplasty surgical procedure | Dr.Pooja Gullapalli

Definition:

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a deviated nasal septum. The nasal septum is the bone and cartilage structure that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils. When the septum is significantly off-center or crooked, it can cause breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, and recurrent sinus infections.

Purpose:

The primary goals of septoplasty are to:

Straighten the deviated septum.
Improve airflow through the nasal passages.
Relieve symptoms such as nasal obstruction, congestion, and chronic sinusitis.
Enhance overall nasal function and quality of life.

Indications:

Septoplasty is typically recommended for individuals who have:

A deviated septum causing significant nasal obstruction.
Chronic nasal congestion not responsive to medical treatment.
Recurrent sinus infections related to poor nasal drainage.
Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.
Nosebleeds (epistaxis) due to septal deformities.
Associated conditions like sleep apnea or snoring worsened by nasal obstruction.

Procedure:

Septoplasty is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and involves the following steps:

Preparation:
- The patient is prepped for surgery, and anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Incision
- An incision is made inside the nostril to access the septum, ensuring no visible scarring on the outside of the nose.
Reshaping the Septum:
- The mucosa, a protective tissue layer covering the septum, is lifted. The deviated portions of the septum are then either repositioned, removed, or reshaped to create a straight and functional septum.
Repositioning the Mucosa:
- The mucosa is repositioned back over the newly straightened septum, and absorbable sutures are used to secure it in place.
Closure:
- The incisions are closed, and soft splints or nasal packing may be placed inside the nostrils to support the septum during healing and minimize bleeding.

Recovery:

Postoperative care is crucial for a successful recovery and typically includes:

Resting with the head elevated to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and nose blowing for a few weeks.
Using prescribed medications, such as pain relievers and antibiotics, to manage discomfort and prevent infection.
Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any nasal packing or splints.

Risks and Complications:

As with any surgical procedure, septoplasty carries potential risks, including:

Infection
Bleeding
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Persistent nasal obstruction
Changes in the shape of the nose
Septal perforation (a hole in the septum)
Decreased sense of smell

Benefits:

Improved Breathing:
- Patients typically experience significant relief from nasal obstruction and improved airflow through the nasal passages.
strong> Enhanced Quality of Life:
- Better breathing can lead to improved sleep, reduced snoring, and overall enhanced well-being.
strong> Reduction in Sinus Issues:
- Proper nasal drainage reduces the frequency and severity of sinus infections and other related symptoms.

Outcomes:

When performed by an experienced ENT surgeon like Dr. Pooja Gullapalli, septoplasty has a high success rate. Most patients report significant improvements in their nasal breathing and a reduction in related symptoms, leading to a better quality of life.

Conclusion:

Septoplasty is a vital surgical intervention for individuals suffering from a deviated nasal septum and its associated complications. Dr. Pooja Gullapalli’s expertise in performing septoplasty ensures precise, effective, and safe correction of nasal obstructions. Her comprehensive approach to patient care guarantees optimal outcomes, enabling patients to breathe more easily and enjoy a healthier life.

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Septoplasty