Nasal Valve Reconstruction: A Quality of Life Assessment

Abstract

Objective: 1) Evaluate patient reported outcomes of nasal valve repair using a survey. 2) Understand quality of life measures following nasal valve reconstruction. Method: This retrospective study evaluated patients who underwent nasal valve reconstruction between December 2005 and December 2011. The study involved a 39-question survey that measured quality of life, overall satisfaction with the surgical outcomes, and patient-reported surgical outcomes in multiple symptoms including nasal obstruction, exercise tolerance, sleep, etc. Results: Forty-four patients completed the survey, and 25 had prior nasal surgery. The most common postoperative complaint was breathing difficulties (36%). Seventeen patients (39%) reported no change in the size of the nose despite augmentation of the nasal valve. Of those patients who did notice a change, 52% stated they notice the increase in size occasionally and never hear comments from others (70%). Overall, patients were satisfied with the results (81%), and 98% would recommend the procedure to others. There was a statistically significant improvement in nasal blockage/obstruction, breathing through the nose, sleeping, and breathing through the nose during exercise. Conclusion: Our data suggest that nasal valve reconstruction is a reasonable approach to patients with nasal obstruction and trouble breathing through the nose. This approach may be especially important in patients who have already had prior nasal surgery but refractory symptoms.