Long-term effects of the titanium butterfly implant on quality of life: a prospective cohort study.

Abstract

Nasal valve insufficiency is known to have a negative impact on both nasal patency and quality of life. The titanium butterfly implant is a surgical treatment proven to have a positive effect on these aspects up to 6months postoperative. This study aimed to determine the long-term effects of the titanium butterfly implant on nasal obstruction symptoms and quality of life in adult patients with nasal valve insufficiency up to 5years after procedure. A prospective single cohort study was performed including 29 patients that underwent the titanium butterfly implant in one tertiary medical center. Data was obtained before and at least 5years after surgery using three questionnaires: the Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness questionnaire, the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory questionnaire. A significant decrease in total NOSE score was seen compared to baseline measurements. The SNOT-22 scores also showed a significant decrease, whereas the GBI scores showed no significant changes at the late follow-up. Seven years after placement the titanium butterfly implant still has a statistically significant improvement on otorhinologic-related quality of life compared to preoperative measurements.