Trans-septal quilting suture versus intranasal silicone splint for preventing complications post endoscopic septoplasty

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Septoplasty is a common procedure in the field of otolaryngology for treatment of septal deviations. Intranasal splints and trans-septal quilting suture are commonly utilized to prevent post-operative complications. The silicone splint is a quick and simple technique to aid in cartilage support; however, it can cause discomfort. Trans-septal quilting suture is more available, well-tolerated and can help in mucosal tear closure, though is time-consuming. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intranasal silicone splints versus quilting suture in the prevention of post endoscopic septoplasty complications.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> This was a retrospective COHORT study comprised of patients who underwent endoscopic septoplasty between January 2017 and December 2019 at Qatif central hospital. The patients were assigned into two groups: group S, who received intranasal splints and group Q, who received trans-septal quilting suturing. Patients’ medical records were reviewed for evaluation of post-operative visits and post-operative nasal endoscopic video recordings from the image archive software were evaluated to document complications. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 23.0 software.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> The study included 65 patients, of whom 41 were in group S and 24 were in group Q. None of the patients had major bleeding, local infection or mucosal synechia. There was a higher complication rate in terms of mucosal crustation, septal hematoma and perforation among group S; however, the difference was not statistically significant.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> We conclude that trans-septal quilting suture and intranasal silicone splints are both equally effective in preventing complications following septoplasty.</p>