Nose
Deviated Septum Surgery
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct defects or deformities of the septum. The nasal septum is the separation between the two nostrils. In adults, it is composed of both cartilage and bone. The nasal septum has three functions: support the nose, regulate air flow, and support the mucous membranes of the nose. A number of medical conditions may indicate a need for the procedure, including nasal air passage obstruction, a deviated septum, tumors, chronic and uncontrolled nosebleeds, or the presence of polyps, etc. Additionally, a septoplasty may be performed in conjunction with a rhinoplasty in order to ensure that the reshaping of the nose does not result in a reduction of the amount of breathing space.
Patients who receive septoplasty can usually return home the same day or in the morning after following surgery. Risks or complications are relatively rare. Recovery symptoms may include bleeding, swelling, bruising, or discoloration.
Chronic Nasal Congestion Treatment
Turbinate reduction surgery is a procedure that shrinks the turbinates in order to alleviate chronic nasal congestion and nasal obstruction. The tubinates are small curved bones that extend horizontally along the wall of the nasal passage. Their purpose is to humidify and filter the air that is inhaled through the nose. The inferior turbinate fills the lower portion of the nasal airway and can become very swollen in response to allergies or infections. When a patient's turbinate is abnormally large and does not respond to traditional therapies such as antihistamines or antibiotics, surgical intervention may be recommended.
During surgery, the turbinate is shrunk by the placement of a surgical probe. Using radiofrequency, the submucosal tissue is vaporized while the mucosal layer is preserved to allow for continued nasal humidification. The procedure is relatively low-risk although it may result in some dryness within the nose. Occasionally the turbinate tissue will re-grow and the surgery may need to be repeated. Mild discomfort lasts for about 1-2 days.
Removal of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are a common condition that involves localized swelling in the nose or opening of the sinuses that develop as a result of chronic nasal and sinus inflammation. While not usually cancerous, polyps cause nasal obstruction, breathing difficulties and frequent sinus infections. Many polyps can be decreased in size through medication, but others may require more advanced treatment.
A polypectomy is a surgical procedure that completely removes polyps to relieve symptoms and reduce the chance of recurrence. This procedure can be performed in your doctor's office with a small mechanical suction device or a microdebrider. After removal, a biopsy of the polyp is taken to make sure it is not cancerous.
After a polypectomy, patients can immediately return to work and other regular activities. You may be given a nasal douche and nasal steroids to help keep the area clear and prevent the recurrence of polyps.
Adenoid Surgery
Adenoid Surgery (adenoidectomy) is the surgical removal of the adenoid glands. Adenoids are small lumps of tissue in the back of the throat that help fight ear, nose, and throat infections. The majority of adenoidectomies are performed in children. The adenoids usually shrink by adolescence, so adults rarely undergo the procedure.
Adenoid Surgery may be needed if the adenoids become infected and swell up, blocking the nose and making it difficult to breathe. Swollen adenoids may also result in sleep apnea, chronic snoring, ear infections, and difficulty swallowing. Adenoidectomies are usually performed on an outpatient basis using a general anesthetic.
Swollen adenoids are often associated with tonsillitis and may be removed as part of an operation to remove the tonsils. This procedure is called an adenotonsillectomy.