Use of Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Scale in Objective Evaluation of Symptomological Improvement in Post Septoplasty Patients

Abstract

Introduction
 The complaint of nasal obstruction or difficulty in nasal breathing is highly subjective. Benefits of Septoplasty, as perceived by the patient, also varies widely with subjective satisfaction ranging from complete alleviation of symptoms to a total failure.
 Materials and Methods
 Fifty three patients above 18 years of age, with anatomical deviation of the nasal septum as the sole cause of obstruction and symptoms persisting for more than 3 months, underwent septoplasty. Nasal endoscopy was done for Mladina typing of the nasal septal deviation. Pre and post operative NOSE (Nasal Obstruction & Symptom Evaluation) score were analysed.
 Results
 Mean preoperative NOSE score was 11.98 ±1.23. On the 6th and 12th postoperative week follow up NOSE score was 3.13±1.30 & 1.05±0.87 respectively with p value <0.05. 
 Conclusion
 Mladina typing along with NOSE score will help in letting the patient know about his or her expected outcome following septoplasty.