Health A-Z

A nasal septal perforation is a hole or opening in the nasal septum, the wall that separates the nostrils. It can be caused by various factors, including trauma, surgery, infection, or prolonged use of nasal decongestants. Here's an overview of the symptoms, treatment options, and diagnosis testing for nasal septal perforation repair.

1. Nasal Discharge: Some individuals may experience nasal discharge, which can be bloody or purulent.
2. Nasal Obstruction: A perforation in the nasal septum can cause nasal obstruction or congestion.
3. Nosebleeds: Nasal septal perforations may be associated with frequent nosebleeds (epistaxis).
4. Whistling Sound: Air passing through the perforation may produce a whistling sound during breathing.
5. Crusting: Crusting or scabbing around the perforation site may occur due to drying of nasal secretions.

1. Conservative Management: In some cases, small nasal septal perforations may not require treatment if they are asymptomatic and not causing significant issues. Conservative management involves measures to alleviate symptoms, such as nasal saline irrigation and topical nasal moisturizers.
2. Surgical Repair: Surgical repair may be recommended for larger or symptomatic nasal septal perforations. The surgical technique used for repair depends on the size and location of the perforation, as well as the underlying cause. Common surgical procedures for nasal septal perforation repair include:
   • Septal Flap Repair: This involves using tissue from the nasal septum or adjacent nasal mucosa to create a flap that covers and closes the perforation.
   • Septal Button Placement: A septal button, made of silicone or other biocompatible material, may be inserted into the perforation to provide temporary closure and symptom relief.
   • Cartilage Grafting: In cases of large or complex perforations, cartilage grafts harvested from the nasal septum, ear, or rib may be used to reconstruct the nasal septum and close the perforation.
3. Postoperative Care: After nasal septal perforation repair surgery, postoperative care typically involves nasal packing, nasal saline irrigation, and close monitoring for complications such as infection or recurrence of the perforation.

1. Nasal Endoscopy: A nasal endoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted into the nasal passages to examine the nasal septum and identify the perforation.
2. Imaging Studies: Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to evaluate the extent and location of the nasal septal perforation.