Endoscopic versus conventional septoplasty in the treatment of obstructive nasal septal deviation

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND. Nasal septum deviations are disorders in which the nasal septum has an abnormal conformation that affects nasal breathing. Surgical correction of the deviated nasal septum, performed by various techniques, is one of the methods of repermeabilization of the upper airway. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic surgical treatment of the nasal septum deviation on the nasal obstruction, as well as to evaluate the frequency of postoperative complications compared to classical septoplasty. MATERIAL AND METHODS. A retrospective longitudinal study was performed on a group of 92 patients diagnosed with nasal septal deviation, between 2014-2018. 32 patients were excluded from the study after the exclusion criteria were applied. Two groups of 30 patients each were formed: Group I, endoscopic septoplasty was performed; Group II, the conventional septoplasty was used. An objective endoscopic and rhinomanometric evaluation, as well as a subjective assessment of symptoms (nasal obstruction, headache, posterior rhinorrhea, sneezing), was performed preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS. The study showed better results (p<0.05) and fewer complications in endoscopic septoplasty compared to the traditional one, the endoscopic septoplasty providing better lighting and improved access, allowing a limited incision. CONCLUSION. Endoscopic septoplasty can be considered a reliable alternative to traditional techniques. It is essential to correctly identify the type of preoperative deformity in order to select the appropriate surgical strategy.