Septoplasty is the Surgical Procedure for Rearrangement of the Nasal Septum
Septoplasty is the correct name for the surgical procedure that involves the rearrangement of the nasal septum to correct septal deviation and improve nasal function. 1, 2
Definition and Purpose
Septoplasty is defined as a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated nasal septum for the purpose of improving nasal function, form, or both. It specifically addresses the cartilaginous and/or bony components of the nasal septum that cause nasal obstruction. 1
Key aspects of septoplasty include:
- Focuses on correcting the deviated portions of the nasal septum
- Aims to improve nasal airflow and breathing
- Addresses functional problems related to nasal obstruction
- May be performed alone or in conjunction with other nasal procedures
Surgical Techniques
The procedure involves several specific techniques:
- Realignment techniques: Including suture fixation, locking, and cartilage shaving 1
- Weakening procedures: May include resection, through-and-through incisions, scoring, and sometimes morselization of the septal cartilage 1
- Reconstruction methods: Suture approximation, dorsal and caudal battens to stabilize and support the realigned septum 1
Septoplasty can be performed using:
- Traditional approach with hemitransfixion incision
- Endoscopic approach for better visualization, especially for posterior deviations 3
- Open approach when combined with rhinoplasty (septorhinoplasty) 2
Clinical Indications
Septoplasty is indicated for patients with:
- Documented nasal obstruction who have failed conservative management 2
- Moderate to severe vestibular obstruction causing significant symptoms 2
- Difficulty with sleep, exercise, and mild obstructive sleep apnea related to nasal obstruction 2
- Chronic sinusitis with significant anatomical nasal obstruction not responding to medical therapy 2
Outcomes and Effectiveness
The procedure is highly effective in improving nasal breathing:
- Studies show a critical improvement in obstructive symptoms and quality of life 4
- Mean difference in NOSE (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation) scores at 6-months follow-up compared to baseline was -48.8 points 4
- Approximately 77% of patients achieve subjective improvement following nasal surgery 2
- Revision surgery is required in approximately 10% of cases within 3 years 2
Differentiation from Other Nasal Procedures
It's important to distinguish septoplasty from other nasal procedures:
- Rhinoplasty: Focuses primarily on the aesthetic appearance of the external nose
- Septorhinoplasty: Combines septoplasty with rhinoplasty to address both functional and aesthetic concerns 5
- Turbinate reduction: Often performed alongside septoplasty but specifically addresses enlarged turbinates 3
- Bronchoplasty: Relates to bronchial procedures, not nasal surgery
- Pneumoplasty: Not a standard nasal procedure
Complications and Considerations
Potential complications of septoplasty include:
- Bleeding, infection, pain, and synechiae (adhesions) 2
- Recirculation of mucus or septal perforation (rare) 2
- Risk of saddle nose deformity if septal support is compromised 6
- Persistent deviation in some cases 5
The risk of severe complications is approximately 0.5% 2, making septoplasty a generally safe procedure when performed by experienced surgeons.