Avoiding alar necrosis with post-nasal packs

Abstract

Foley’s catheter is used for post-nasal packing in severe epistaxis. Various methods have been described for securing the catheter in position, all of which can be associated with patient discomfort, risk of alar necrosis or unsightliness. We describe a new method to secure the Foley’s catheter without these problems. The ribbon gauze used for anterior nasal packing is tied over the catheter in multiple knots to secure it in place. This has been successfully tried on over 50 patients.