Closure of a nasal septum perforation is a surgical procedure aimed at repairing an opening in the nasal septum that can cause discomfort, dryness, recurrent nosebleeds, and whistling sounds during breathing. The operation restores the integrity of the septum, improves nasal function, and enhances the patient’s quality of life.
Indications for surgery
- Persistent dryness and discomfort in the nasal cavity.
- Frequent episodes of nosebleeds (epistaxis).
- Whistling sounds during nasal breathing.
- Impaired nasal airflow.
- Recurrent infectious processes in the nasal cavity.
- Aesthetic deformities of the nose caused by septal perforation.
Causes of septal perforation
- Nasal trauma (blunt injury or previous surgical interventions).
- Chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g., Wegener’s granulomatosis / granulomatosis with polyangiitis).
- Infections or prolonged use of topical vasoconstrictive nasal sprays.
- Occupational exposure to harmful substances (chemicals, dust).
How the surgery is performed
Comprehensive preoperative evaluation:
- Nasal endoscopy to assess the size and location of the perforation.
- CT or MRI (if indicated) to evaluate surrounding tissues.
- Blood tests and specialist consultations in patients with chronic systemic conditions.
Preoperative recommendations: smoking cessation and discontinuation of blood-thinning medications several weeks before surgery.
Surgical procedure
- Anesthesia. The operation is performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia.
- Surgical technique. Local mucosal flaps are used to close the perforation. In some cases, cartilage grafts or synthetic materials may be applied to reinforce the septum.
- Completion. After reconstruction, the incisions are sutured, and the nasal cavity may be drained or packed to prevent postoperative bleeding.
Postoperative rehabilitation
- Nasal care. Regular saline irrigation to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Activity restriction. Avoid physical exertion, bending forward, and sports activities for 2–3 weeks.
- Physiotherapy. Laser therapy, ultraviolet therapy, or magnetotherapy may be used to enhance tissue regeneration.
- Medical follow-up. Regular ENT examinations to monitor healing.
Advantages of the procedure
- Complete closure of the septal perforation.
- Restoration of normal nasal breathing.
- Reduced risk of infections and recurrent bleeding.
- Improved overall quality of life.
Possible complications
- Mild postoperative bleeding.
- Recurrence of the perforation if postoperative recommendations are not followed.
- Rare cases of infection at the surgical site.
Closure of a nasal septum perforation is an effective surgical procedure that eliminates the septal defect, restores normal nasal breathing, and improves the patient’s overall condition.
The procedure is performed in leading clinics in Belarus, where modern diagnostic and surgical techniques are used along with an individualized approach to each patient.
