Correction of Deviated Nasal Septum: Conventional Vs Endoscopic Septoplasty

Abstract

Background: Deviated nasal septum (DNS) is one of the most common causes for nasal block. Endoscopic approach under good illumination and magnification lessens the chances of injuring the vital structures and hence lessens the complications. An attempt was made to study and compare the results and complication of conventional septoplasty with that of endoscopic septoplasty. Methodology: Patients with DNS, attending a tertiary care hospital with presenting complaints of nasal obstruction, head ache, post nasal drip and hyposmia were included. A total of 150 patients were subjected to detailed clinical examination and investigations like X-ray of PNS, Telescopic examination of nose and CT scan were done. One group of 75 patients were subjected to endoscopic correction of septal spur and the rest 75 were subjected to conventional septoplasty. Intra operative and post operative findings were compared in the two groups. Results: Age distribution of the study population ranged from 15 to 40 years. Half of them were in the age group of 21- 30 years. Males were 53.3% and females were 46.7%. Incomplete septal correction was 13.3% with conventional septoplasty and 6.6% with endoscopic septoplasty. Septal flap tear was seen in 32% of those who underwent conventional septoplasty as compared to 20% with endoscopic septoplasty (Z=1.69; P >0.05) Conclusion: Though conventional septoplasty is practiced since ages, the endoscopic approach by far can be definitely be considered as a better alternative in the correction of Deviated Nasal Septum.