Comparing Merocel versus Surgicel as nasal packing for post-inferior turbinoplasty surgery.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare Merocel and Surgicel nasal packing following inferior turbinoplasty, focusing on post-operative bleeding, pain, discomfort and nasal obstruction.

METHODS

A randomised controlled trial (2017-2021) was conducted in the Department of Otolaryngology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore. Sixty adults undergoing inferior turbinoplasty and/or septoplasty were randomised to receive Merocel or Surgicel packing. Standardised surgical and post-operative protocols were used. Outcomes-bleeding, pain, discomfort and nasal obstruction-were assessed on post-operative day 1 and post-operative days 5-7 using validated scales.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients completed the study (Merocel = 30; Surgicel = 28). On post-operative day 1, Surgicel had significantly lower nasal obstruction scores (1.57 ± 0.74 vs 2.10 ± 0.71; p = 0.008). By post-operative days 5-7, Merocel showed significantly less bleeding (0.77 ± 0.63 vs 1.18 ± 0.86; p = 0.044). Pain and discomfort were comparable.

CONCLUSION

Merocel provided superior sustained haemostasis, while Surgicel offered better early comfort. Both materials have comparable outcomes.