Optimal time for nasal packing removal after septoplasty. A comparative study.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and subjective discomfort of one-day internal dressing compared to that of two-day in patients undergoing nasal septal surgery.

STUDY DESIGN/

METHODS

Prospective, randomized, clinical trial conducted on 75 patients undergoing septoplasty in a tertiary ENT clinic. Discomfort caused by nasal dressings was evaluated by means of a visual analog scale. Postoperative complications were also compared.

RESULTS

Mean discomfort score for group A (nasal packing for 48 hours) was 3.5 (SD 1.15) vs. 2.7 (SD 1.52) for group B (nasal packing for 24 hours). Significant lower discomfort is reported when the nasal packing is removed the first day instead of after two or more days. No increase in complication rate was noticed.

CONCLUSION

Our results point out that one-day internal nasal dressing is preferable to that of two or more days, because of less patient discomfort and increased cost-effectiveness without increasing immediate complications.