Significance of Internal Nasal Valve and Nasal Septal Swell Body in Improving the Outcome of Septoplasty: A Literature Review

Abstract

Nasal obstruction is a common presenting symptom for both primary care physicians and otolaryngologists, and it can be caused by various anatomic, physiologic, and pathophysiologic factors. Structural nasal obstruction may result from a Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS), Internal Nasal Valve (INV) obstruction, External Nasal Valve (ENV) obstruction, inferior turbinate hypertrophy, Nasal Septal Swell Body (NSB) etc. Combined causes occasionally go unnoticed, and postoperative symptom relief may not always be satisfactory. Revision surgeries in cases where septoplasty fails due to misdiagnosed multicausative factors can increase the complexity of the procedure, further affecting its success. In this review, our objective is to examine the significance of the NSB and the INV, which are often overlooked nasal structures, in improving the outcomes of septoplasty. Upon reviewing the findings, it can be confirmed that diagnosing these overlooked structures has led to improved outcomes in septoplasty and, consequently, the quality of life for patients with nasal obstruction.