When to start using saline nasal spray after septoplasty?

From the Guidelines

You should start using saline nasal spray after the removal of nasal packing or splints, typically 24-48 hours after septoplasty, to promote healing and prevent complications. According to the clinical practice guideline on nosebleed (epistaxis) 1, keeping the nose and packing moist with nasal saline sprays throughout the day can reduce crusting and help resorbable packing melt away.

When using the saline spray, it is essential to follow proper techniques to avoid causing further irritation or damage to the nasal passages. This includes:

• Tilt your head slightly forward over a sink to prevent the saline solution from flowing down the back of your throat
• Insert the nozzle just inside the nostril without pressing against the septum
• Spray gently to avoid forcing the solution too far into the nasal passage
• Avoid forceful blowing of your nose for the first week after surgery

The benefits of using saline nasal spray after septoplasty include:

• Moisturizing the nasal passages and removing crusts and dried blood
• Reducing inflammation and promoting healing
• Preventing the formation of scabs that could impair healing
• Keeping the surgical site clean and maintaining moisture in the nasal passages, which is essential for proper mucosal function

It is recommended to continue using the saline spray for at least 2-3 weeks post-surgery or as directed by your surgeon 1. By following these guidelines and using saline nasal spray as directed, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from septoplasty.

From the Research

Post-Septoplasty Nasal Spray Usage

• The usage of saline nasal spray after septoplasty is a common practice to relieve postoperative symptoms and promote healing.
• According to the study 2, patients were instructed to use nasal sprays for 1 week, twice daily, with a 12-hour interval between the 2 doses as a single spray per nostril, starting immediately after surgery.
• Another study 3 found that the use of nasal decongestant sprays in the very early postoperative period is beneficial to reduce postsurgical nasal crusting and bleeding symptoms and also for decreasing nasal resistance in this edematous period.
• The study 4 compared two methods of nasal irrigation after septoplasty and found that the combined use of low-pressure, high-volume nasal saline irrigation, together with fluticasone propionate, was effective in reducing edema and crusting, and improving nasal air flow.

Timing of Nasal Spray Usage

• The exact timing of when to start using saline nasal spray after septoplasty is not explicitly stated in the studies, but it can be inferred that it can be started immediately after surgery, as mentioned in the study 2.
• The study 3 also suggests that early postoperative use of nasal decongestant sprays can be beneficial.
• However, it is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider or surgeon regarding the use of nasal sprays after septoplasty, as they may vary depending on individual cases and procedures.

Types of Nasal Sprays

• The studies 2, 3, and 4 used different types of nasal sprays, including saline, xylometazoline-hydrochloride, and fluticasone propionate.
• The study 5 compared the effects of different nasal irrigation solutions, including hypertonic sea water, and found it to be associated with less crusting, drying, and obstruction in the nose for the postoperative period following septoplasty and concha radiofrequency.
• The choice of nasal spray may depend on the specific needs and conditions of the patient, and should be determined by a healthcare provider or surgeon 2, 3, 4, 5.