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BACKGROUND: Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are a frequent emergency in the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) department.Epistaxis can arise from both local and systemic factors. Locally, bleeding can occur within the nasal cavity, either in the anterior or posterior region. The most common site of anterior epistaxis is Kiesselbach's plexus.Epistaxis management can be complex and requires a thoughtful approach, with most cases being successfully treated through conservative measures, while others may necessitate surgical intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hospital-basedprospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Assam Medical College and Hospital for one year (1 st April 2023 to 31st March 2024) in patients presenting with epistaxis in Department of Otorhinolaryngology, AMCH. RESULTS: Most of the patients belonged to the age group of 41-50 years. Male: female ratio was 2.55%. Hypertension was the leading cause of nasal bleed in 28.125% of cases. This was followed by trauma in 25% of cases. Conservative management was the most common modality of treatment. CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into effective epistaxis management, emphasizing a tailored approach based on severity and cause, with conservative measures suitable for most cases and surgery reserved for a few. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic surgery is an effective and common clinical practice for chronic sinusitis. Nasal packing materials are applied in nasal surgery to prevent hemorrhage and promote wound healing. In this study, a degradable polyurethane foam dressing is successfully developed as a promising nasal packing material with good biocompatibility and antibacterial capability. Specifically, quaternized chitosan (QCS) serves as the crosslinker instead of polyols to offer polyurethane foam (PUF-QCS) antibacterial capability. The PUF-QCS2.0 % (with 2.0 wt% QCS) exhibits satisfactory liquid absorption capacity (19.4 g/g), high compressive strengths at both wet (14.5 kPa) and dry states (7.7 kPa), and a good degradation rate (8.3 %) within 7 days. Meanwhile, PUF-QCS2.0 % retains long-term antibacterial activity for 7 days and kills 97.3 % of S. aureus and 91.8 % of E. coli within 6 hours in antibacterial testing. Furthermore, PUF-QCS2.0 % demonstrates a positive hemostatic response in the rabbit nasal septum mucosa trauma model by reducing hemostatic time over 50.0 % and decreasing blood loss up to 76.1 % compared to the commercial PVA nasal packing sponge. Importantly, PUF-QCS also exhibits a significant antibacterial activity in nasal cavity. This nasal packing material has advantages in post-surgery bleeding control and infection prevention. The performance of a nasal packing sponge requires good mechanical properties, fast and high liquid absorption rate, effective degradability and strong antibacterial activity. These features are helpful for improving the postoperative recovery and patient healing. However, integrating these into a single polyurethane foam is a challenge. In this study, quaternized chitosan (QCS) is synthesized and used as a chain extender and antibacterial agent in preparing a degradable polyurethane foam (PUF-QCS) dressing. PUF-QCS undergoes partial degradation and exhibits effective broad-spectrum antibacterial activity in 7 days. The reduction of postoperative bleeding and infection observed in the animal experiment further demonstrates that the PUF-QCS developed here outperforms the existing commercial nasal packing materials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to a myriad of risk factors, epistaxis is a very frequent presentation to the emergency room (ER). This study aims to ascertain the prevalence of epistaxis in our population, risk factors, effectiveness of ER treatment, complications, and ER outcome. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study performed in the ER of a referral tertiary care center in south India. Data were categorized, coded, and analyzed to determine the objective of the study. Results: During the study's six-month duration, 188 (0.6%) patients presented with epistaxis. The mean age was 42.9 (SD: 16.49) years, with a male preponderance of 143 (76.1%). A majority of these patients (n: 156; 82.9%) were triaged as priority II, with hypertension (n: 53, 28.2%) as the commonest comorbidities. Trauma-related epistaxis (n: 107, 56.9%) was the most frequent cause. Anterior nasal packing was carried out for 85 (45.2%) patients, posterior nasal packing was carried out for one (0.5%) patient, and bleeding had spontaneously resolved in the majority (n: 102; 54.3%) patients. Seven (3.7%; p-value: 0.001) patients had recurrent epistaxis, and of those, three (1.6%) required urgent resuscitation with crystalloid fluid and blood products. Two of these patients had bleeding dyscrasias, four had history of trauma, and one patient presented with uncontrolled hypertension. Two (1.1%) patients came back to us with recurrent bleeding within 12 h of discharge. Majority (69.2%; 130) were discharged stable, (23.9%; 45) were admitted for observation and (6.9%; 13) were discharged against medical advice. There was no mortality among these study populations. Conclusion: Middle-young, aged males most commonly presented with epistaxis. Most of them were secondary to trauma. Anterior nasal bleeding was the most common source and hemostasis could be obtained by anterior nasal packing. Majority could be discharged stable from the ER. However, this cohort had seen patients in life-threatening conditions, so the severity cannot be overlooked.

Background: Epistaxis is a common condition but with diverse etiology dependent on geography, season, climate, and demography. Aims and Objectives: To describe the demographic, clinical, and etiological profile and management strategies of epistaxis cases at a tertiary center in U.P. (west). Materials and Methods: Patients were identified from the emergency and outpatient department, and their demographic and clinical details were noted. Local examination was performed, and necessary investigations were carried out. Management strategies were noted. Duration of hospital stay and mortality, if any, was documented. Descriptive analytics were used. Data were represented as numbers and percentages, mean±standard deviation, and median. Results: A total of 189 epistaxis patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of patients was 32.89±17.92 (range 1–85 years). The sex ratio (M: F) was 2.71. Majority of patients presented to the emergency department (60.3%) within 1 day (64.6%), had single episode (66.7%), the presence of old clot (72%) and the anterior location of bleeding (91.5%). 119 (63%) cases required admission. Nasal endoscopy and computed tomography scan were performed in 49 (25.9%) and 24 (12.7%) cases, respectively. The most common etiology was trauma (49.2%), followed by idiopathic cause (14.8%), hypertension (12.7%), and others. Nasal packing and cauterization were required in 16.4% and 15.9% of cases, respectively. Surgery was required in 5 (2.6%) cases. A minuscule percentage of cases required blood transfusion. There was no mortality. Conclusion: Epistaxis is a common emergency with males predominating over females. Causes are varied. Most patients can be managed conservatively with favorable outcomes if timely intervention is done.

Background: Due to a myriad of risk factors, epistaxis is a very frequent presentation to the emergency room (ER). This study aims to ascertain the prevalence of epistaxis in our population, risk factors, effectiveness of ER treatment, complications, and ER outcome.Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study performed in the ER of a referral tertiary care center in south India. Data were categorized, coded, and analyzed to determine the objective of the study. Results: During the study's six-month duration, 188 (0.6%) patients presented with epistaxis. The mean age was 42.9 (SD: 16.49) years, with a male preponderance of 143 (76.1%). A majority of these patients (n: 156; 82.9%) were triaged as priority II, with hypertension (n: 53, 28.2%) as the commonest comorbidities. Trauma-related epistaxis (n: 107, 56.9%) was the most frequent cause. Anterior nasal packing was carried out for 85 (45.2%) patients, posterior nasal packing was carried out for one (0.5%) patient, and bleeding had spontaneously resolved in the majority (n: 102; 54.3%) patients. Seven (3.7%; p-value: 0.001) patients had recurrent epistaxis, and of those, three (1.6%) required urgent resuscitation with crystalloid fluid and blood products. Two of these patients had bleeding dyscrasias, four had history of trauma, and one patient presented with uncontrolled hypertension. Two (1.1%) patients came back to us with recurrent bleeding within 12 h of discharge. Majority (69.2%; 130) were discharged stable, (23.9%; 45) were admitted for observation and (6.9%; 13) were discharged against medical advice. There was no mortality among these study populations. Conclusion: Middle-young, aged males most commonly presented with epistaxis. Most of them were secondary to trauma. Anterior nasal bleeding was the most common source and hemostasis could be obtained by anterior nasal packing. Majority could be discharged stable from the ER. However, this cohort had seen patients in life-threatening conditions, so the severity cannot be overlooked. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background To help ensure adequate hemostasis immediately following potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser treatment, many centres treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) routinely use nasal packing post‐operatively. The purpose of this study was to compare hemostatic thrombin matrix with standard packing for postoperative bleeding, patient pain, and comfort. Methods A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, non‐inferiority study was conducted with participants at an HHT centre of excellence (COE) and randomized to the treatment group with reconstituted thrombin gelatin matrix (Surgiflo®) or control group with a biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam (NasoPore®). Adult subjects with confirmed HHT and moderate to severe epistaxis (a minimum calculated epistaxis severity score [ESS] of 4.0) warranting KTP laser treatment were recruited. Data was collected 2 weeks post operatively by a blinded reviewer completing a visual outcomes evaluation and each patient completing a subjective symptoms questionnaire. Non‐parametric statistical analysis was employed. Results Twenty‐eight adult patients were randomized to the treatment and control arms with comparable preoperative epistaxis severity scores. Postoperative nasal bleeding was equivalent. Significantly less pain was found in the treatment arm (p = .005). While there were trends towards less obstruction and increased satisfaction in the treatment group as well as less crusting in the control group, these findings were not statistically significant. Allocation to the treatment group was associated with an approximately $75 higher cost. Conclusions When compared to NasoPore® for hemostasis, Surgiflo® hemostatic matrix performed equivalently while causing less discomfort in HHT patients following nasal KTP treatment. Level of evidence 1b.

Objective: To compare the effects of nasal packing using a Nasopore nasal packing with and without an airway tube on postoperative pain, SpO2, nasal obstruction, and difficulty in breathing complaints. Methods: This comparative study was conducted at Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), DMC Civil Hospital Karachi between September 18, 2021, to May 19, 2022. A total of 70 patients who underwent septoplasty for septal deviation and chronic hypertrophic rhinitis were equally divided into two groups. Group-A patients received nasal packing using a Nasopore nasal packing with an airway tube, and Group-B patients received nasal packing using a Nasopore nasal packing without an airway tube. Post-operation Nasal pain sensations were measured using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale at 2 and 12 hours. SpO2 was measured at 30 minutes pre-operatively with an O2 saturation monitor and 12 hours post-operatively during sleep. Results: The postoperative pain at two hours and 12 hours was compared between the two groups, and a significant difference was observed. In Group-A, the average SpO2 decreased > 4% from baseline in 5.7% patients, and 37% in Group-B. A significant difference was observed in the severity of nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing, P-value < 0.05. Conclusion: It is concluded that septoplasty followed by applying nasal packing with integrated airway reduces postoperative pain and improves oxygen saturation compared to nasal packing without integrated airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epistaxis means bleeding from nostrils, nasal cavity or nasopharynx. To summarize the available epistaxis treatment options. Methods: 61 articles published in the last 20 years were included. Duplicate records, irrelevant and inaccessible ones were excluded. Epistaxis can be treated with first aid measures such as external pressure and ice packing and applying topical agents, e.g. oxymetazoline that stops 65–75% of nosebleeds in A&E. Also, with electrocautery which is more effective and has fewer recurrences (14.5% vs. 35.1%) than chemical cauterization and applying tranexamic acid that promotes hemostasis in 78% of patients, versus 35% and 31% respectively in patients treated with oxymetazoline and nasal packing. Furthermore, nasal packing can be applied with non-absorbable materials, e.g. petroleum jelly, BIPP gauze, PVA nasal tampons (Merocel), Foley catheter, balloons (Rapid-Rhino), absorbable materials, e.g. nasal tampon (Nasopore), and with newer hemostatic materials which are more effective and with fewer complications, e.g. hemostatic gauzes (Surgicel), thrombin matrix (Floseal), gelatin sponge (Spongostan) and fibrin glue. Moreover, epistaxis can be achieved with endoscopic ligation of arteries, mainly SPA, which is more effective than conventional nasal packing (97% vs. 62%), and with endoscopic cauterization which is more effective than ligation. Finally, for intractable cases embolization can be applied using gelatin sponge, foam, PVA and coils with 80% success rate and comparable efficacy and complications to surgical methods. Epistaxis can be dealt with various methods depending on patient's history and available resources. Newer hemostatic agents in combination with endoscopic methods have advantages over traditional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epistaxis is a common condition but with diverse etiology dependent on geography, season, climate, and demography. Aims and Objectives: To describe the demographic, clinical, and etiological profile and management strategies of epistaxis cases at a tertiary center in U.P. (west). Materials and Methods: Patients were identified from the emergency and outpatient department, and their demographic and clinical details were noted. Local examination was performed, and necessary investigations were carried out. Management strategies were noted. Duration of hospital stay and mortality, if any, was documented. Descriptive analytics were used. Data were represented as numbers and percentages, mean±standard deviation, and median. Results: A total of 189 epistaxis patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of patients was 32.89±17.92 (range 1-85 years). The sex ratio (M: F) was 2.71. Majority of patients presented to the emergency department (60.3%) within 1 day (64.6%), had single episode (66.7%), the presence of old clot (72%) and the anterior location of bleeding (91.5%). 119 (63%) cases required admission. Nasal endoscopy and computed tomography scan were performed in 49 (25.9%) and 24 (12.7%) cases, respectively. The most common etiology was trauma (49.2%), followed by idiopathic cause (14.8%), hypertension (12.7%), and others. Nasal packing and cauterization were required in 16.4% and 15.9% of cases, respectively. Surgery was required in 5 (2.6%) cases. A minuscule percentage of cases required blood transfusion. There was no mortality. Conclusion: Epistaxis is a common emergency with males predominating over females. Causes are varied. Most patients can be managed conservatively with favorable outcomes if timely intervention is done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epistaxis is a common otorhinolaryngological condition. It is often self-limiting, and only 6-10% of individuals seek medical care. Epistaxis is common in children and elderly. It is commonly of anterior type, originating from the Kieselbach plexus following trauma. It can be posterior type, usually in the elderly. Various treatment options are available such as nasal packing, hemocoagulase, cautery, embolization, etc. The causative factors, types of epistaxis and the treatment options employed are variable. Objectives: The present study was conducted to know the common type of epistaxis requiring medical attention in the patients attending our tertiary care hospital, the treatment commonly provided and the outcome. Methods: Retrospective observational hospital-based study design was used. Data of patients of all age groups and both genders newly presenting with epistaxis to the emergency department from October 2017 to September 2018 were included. Details of causative risk factors, types of epistaxis and treatment given along with the outcome were collected and analyzed. Result: Among the 60 patients studied, 44 were male and 16 were female. Anterior epistaxis (75%) was commoner than posterior epistaxis (25%). Predominant causative risk factors for anterior epistaxis were trauma (56%) and conditions with low platelet counts (31%), while hypertension (93%) was the commonest causative risk factor associated with posterior epistaxis. Nasal packing was used to stop epistaxis in 62% of patients irrespective of the cause (51% of anterior epistaxis and 93% of posterior epistaxis). Conclusion: Anterior type of epistaxis is common following trauma or platelet disorders. Nasal packing is used as an effective treatment, followed by hemocoagulase and cautery for epistaxis.

Negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) is a well-known, albeit infrequent complication caused by upper airway obstruction. It may be seen after extubation following general anesthesia due to excessive negative intrathoracic pressure exerted against an obstructed upper airway. This leads to fluid extravasation from the pulmonary capillaries into the alveolar spaces and lung parenchyma. We report a case of NPPE after endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of the nonfunctional pituitary tumor, which occurred secondary to bilateral nasal packing. Reintubation and positive pressure ventilation were used to manage the patient, who was later extubated after the resolution of features of NPPE.

Background: To help ensure adequate hemostasis immediately following potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser treatment, many centres treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) routinely use nasal packing post‐operatively. The purpose of this study was to compare hemostatic thrombin matrix with standard packing for postoperative bleeding, patient pain, and comfort. Methods: A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, non‐inferiority study was conducted with participants at an HHT centre of excellence (COE) and randomized to the treatment group with reconstituted thrombin gelatin matrix (Surgiflo®) or control group with a biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam (NasoPore®). Adult subjects with confirmed HHT and moderate to severe epistaxis (a minimum calculated epistaxis severity score [ESS] of 4.0) warranting KTP laser treatment were recruited. Data was collected 2 weeks post operatively by a blinded reviewer completing a visual outcomes evaluation and each patient completing a subjective symptoms questionnaire. Non‐parametric statistical analysis was employed. Results: Twenty‐eight adult patients were randomized to the treatment and control arms with comparable preoperative epistaxis severity scores. Postoperative nasal bleeding was equivalent. Significantly less pain was found in the treatment arm (p =.005). While there were trends towards less obstruction and increased satisfaction in the treatment group as well as less crusting in the control group, these findings were not statistically significant. Allocation to the treatment group was associated with an approximately $75 higher cost. Conclusions: When compared to NasoPore® for hemostasis, Surgiflo® hemostatic matrix performed equivalently while causing less discomfort in HHT patients following nasal KTP treatment. Level of evidence: 1b. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS), packing plays an important role in wound healing and hemostasis. However, the effect of the packing removal procedure on physician stress has not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate physician stress during packing removal for patients treated with AQUACEL® Ag Advantage versus KALTOSTAT®. Methods: This retrospective study included 15 patients who underwent packing with ESS for chronic rhinosinusitis performed at two centers; 9 were treated with AQUACEL® Ag Advantage and 6 were treated with KALTOSTAT®. Physician stress during packing removal was evaluated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). The time required to remove the packing and the number of instruments used in the procedure were recorded. Postoperative bleeding (Boezaart bleeding score) and wound healing were graded. Patient symptoms on the day after surgery and pain during packing removal were assessed using a visual analog scale. Results: Computed tomography scores, asthma complications, and blood eosinophil counts were significantly higher in the AQUACEL® Ag Advantage group. Patient symptoms on the day after surgery were not significantly different between the two groups. Physician stress during the task of packing removal was significantly lower in the AQUACEL® Ag Advantage group than in the KALTOSTAT® group (35.5 vs. 81.0, p = 0.016) according to the NASA-TLX scores. The number of instruments used in the procedure was significantly lower in the AQUACEL® Ag Advantage group than in the KALTOSTAT® group (3.0 vs. 6.0, p = 0.015). There were no significant differences in procedure time for packing removal, postoperative bleeding, wound healing, or patient pain at the time of packing removal between the groups. Conclusion: Physicians feel stressed about packing removal. In addition, AQUACEL® Ag Advantage is useful for packing after ESS, requiring fewer instruments for the procedure than KALTOSTAT® and reducing physician stress about the procedure. Level of evidence: Level 3.

Nasal packing is the classic method adopted by many otolaryngologists to stabilize the nasal septum and decrease the occurrence of postoperative bleeding and septal hematoma after septoplasty. However, because of its associated postoperative morbidity, many surgeons started to adopt alternative methods. This study aimed to assess the outcome and benefits of septal quilting sutures in comparison to nasal packing after septoplasty. A prospective non-randomized comparative interventional study was carried out at two teaching hospitals in Mosul city from January 2020 to January 2021. A total of 60 patients who were candidates for septoplasty, were included in the study. According to the surgeon's preference; 30 patients had placement of septal quilting sutures (group A), and in the other 30 patients nasal packing was performed (group B). Patients were assessed for postoperative morbidity and early outcome in the first 24 h, 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. In the first 24 h after septoplasty, patients in group B had significantly higher levels of nasal/facial pain, headache, sleep disturbance, breathing difficulties and swallowing difficulties compared to group A (p < 0.001). Over the follow up period of 1 month, no significant differences were recorded regarding postoperative bleeding, hematoma, infection, adhesions formation and septal perforation between the two groups (p > 0.05). Septal quilting sutures technique is more favorable in the early period in terms of patient discomfort after septoplasty, better nasal block and nasal/facial pain, the absence of misery on pack removal, with minimal bleeding after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been observed that nasal packing following septoplasty contributes to co-morbidities like post-operative pain, bleeding and increased duration of hospital stay. Trans-septal suturing has been suggested as a safe and effective alternative with a view to obviate the need for nasal packing and the hence avoid the discomfort associated with it. To compare the outcome of trans-septal suturing technique with merocel nasal packing after septoplasty. This was a prospective comparative study done on 60 patients who underwent septoplasty. The patients were divided randomly into 2 groups, while Group A comprised of patients undergoing Post-operative nasal packing with poly vinyl alcohol sponge (also commercially called Merocel), Group B included patients who underwent nasal septal suturing after surgery. The postoperative pain, hemorrhage and duration of hospital stay were the main parameters that were assessed and a comparison was drawn between the post-operative outcome of two techniques. Post-operative global pain score was 62.18 ± 4.75 in the group A (patients with nasal packing) and 24.73 ± 4.29 (patients with trans-septal suturing) in group B ('p'value was < 0.0001). Post-operative bleeding was noticed in 19 patients (out of 30) in group A, and in 2 patients of group B ('p'value was < 0.0001). 27 out of 30 patients of Group A were discharged on day 2 whereas 24 out of 30 patients of Group B required only 1 day of hospital stay after the surgery ('p' value was < 0.0001). Trans-septal suturing technique reduces the duration of hospital stay, causes lesser post-operative bleeding and pain and is a relatively less painful technique than merocel nasal packing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quincy K Tran,1,2 Jeremy Barnett,3 Francis O’Connell,3 Brian D’Anza,4 Ali Pourmand3 1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; 2Program in Trauma, The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; 3Department of Emergency Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA; 4Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USACorrespondence: Quincy K Tran Email qtran@som.umaryland.eduAbstract: We performed a narrative review of epistaxis management in the emergency department. First, we examined the pathophysiology, the current types of treatment that are available to emergency clinicians. When nasal packing is indicated, we examined the efficacy of nasal packing in addition to other topical treatment such as tranexamic acid and the evidence of prophylactic antibiotics. We detailed current studies involving tranexamic acid and prophylactic antibiotics for nasal packing. Finally, we introduced an epistaxis clinical care pathway, based on current evidence, to aid emergency clinicians with their clinical decision-making processes.Keywords: epistaxis, tranexamic acid, nasal packing, clinical care pathway

Objective: To compare the efficacy of trans-septal suturing with nasal packing following septoplasty in patients with the deviated nasal septum, in terms of frequency of postoperative pain, septal perforation, and synechiae formation. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the ENT department of Benazir Bhutto Hospital Rawalpindi. Patients were divided into two groups. The total sample size of the study was 280 patients with 1:1 randomization in each group (140 in each group). Consecutive non-probability sampling was used for the recruitment of patients. All the patients underwent a septoplasty. Group A was provided with nasal packing while group B was with trans septal suturing. The study duration was 1 year (21-11-2016 to 21-11-2017). All the patients were followed at 24 hours for measurement of postoperative pain and at 1 and 4 weeks for septal perforation and synechiae formation. Ethical approval was taken from the ethical review board and consent was taken from patients. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. The Chi-square test was applied for observing the association between different variables. Inclusion Criteria ➣ Patients with deviated nasal septum. ➣ Patients' ages ranged from 17-35 years. ➣ Patients of both genders were included. Exclusion Criteria ➣ Patients with diabetes mellitus. ➣ Patients with allergic rhinitis. ➣ Patients with coagulopathies, pulmonary and cardiovascular disorders. ➣ Patients taking warfarin, aspirin, or heparin. Results: Among all the patients 280 (100%), there were 123(43.9%) males and 157(56.1%) females. The study found that the mean age of patients was 25.3±11.9. In group A patients 140, 110 patients showed efficacy while 30 patients did not show efficacy during the study time period. Similarly, 124 patients showed efficacy in Group B while 16 patients did not show efficacy. A significant association was found in both groups regarding pain at 24 hours (p=0.00) while an insignificant association was found with age (p>0.05). Conclusion: To conclude, the trans-septal suturing technique applied in septoplasty causes minimal pain and complications like septal perforation and synechiae formation, and patients resume routine life activities shortly after the surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) is a well-known, albeit infrequent complication caused by upper airway obstruction. It may be seen after extubation following general anesthesia due to excessive negative intrathoracic pressure exerted against an obstructed upper airway. This leads to fluid extravasation from the pulmonary capillaries into the alveolar spaces and lung parenchyma. We report a case of NPPE after endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of the nonfunctional pituitary tumor, which occurred secondary to bilateral nasal packing. Reintubation and positive pressure ventilation were used to manage the patient, who was later extubated after the resolution of features of NPPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a medical setting, such as the treatment of post-operative nosebleeds, nasal packing, including the use of nasal packs, nasal plugs or nasal tampons (NTs), is widely used to temporarily control anterior epistaxis. Although some literature has documented the use of NTs as a quick, easy and temporary solution to deal with anterior epistaxis in sports-induced nasal injuries, additional research is needed to appreciate on-field versus off-field efficacy, as well as the efficiency of different brands of NTs and packing materials.

Abstract Background Nasal obstruction is a significant medical problem. This study aimed to examine the effect of nasal obstruction and nasal packing on arterial blood gases and pulmonary function indices, and the impact of the elimination of nasal obstruction on preoperative values. Results The mean age of the study population was 26.6 ± 10.1 years, males represented 50.8%. Spirometric indices showed statistically significant improvement (preoperative forced expiratory volume in 1st second 66.9 ± 13.9 vs 79.6 ± 14.9 postoperative and preoperative forced vital capacity 65.5 ± 12.7 vs 80.4 ± 13.8 postoperative). Oxygen saturation was significantly lower during nasal packing (95.6 ± 1.6 preoperative vs 94.7 ± 2.8 with nasal pack), and significant improvement (97.2 ± 1.4) was observed after removal of the nasal pack. Nasal obstruction scores significantly improved. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that either simple nasal obstruction or nasal packing may cause hypoxemia and abnormalities in lung function tests. Hypoxemia was more evident with nasal packing.

Background Nasal packing after an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is a routine practice. There is a very urgent need for a level-I recommendation pertaining to the necessity of these packs and, if required, then the timing of its removal. However, the opponents of this practice mention its various disadvantages, among which infection is the most important. In our study, we have evaluated the bacteriological profile of the nasal packs, following endoscopic anterior skull base surgery. Materials and Methods Thirty consecutive cases (2017–18) of anterior skull base pathologies operated by EEA were included, and preoperative nasal swab and postoperative period, the nasal packs were sent for microbiological culture. The colony of bacteria grew, and clinical condition, histopathology and demographic profile of the patients were noted. Results Of the 30 patients, 40% (n = 12) showed an increase in nasal bacterial flora after packing, with methicillin-sensitive coagulase negative Streptococcus (MSCNS) in three patients, Escherichia fecalis (E. fecalis) in three patients, and methicillin-resistant coagulase negative Streptococcus (MRCNS) in two patients. Other rare organisms grew, including Acinetobacter baumanni with E. fecalis, Acinetobacter baumanni with MRCNS, Citrobacter koseni, and Escherichia fecium (E. fecium) with MRCNS and MRSA in one patient each. Conclusion Packing increases the bacterial load of the nasal cavity. This bacterial flora can be a potential source of meningitis. We advocate that packing should be avoided, and if at all required, should be removed within 3 days. A routine practice of nasal swab in the preoperative period and culture of the packs may give information on the possible organism that may cause meningitis and the appropriate antibiotic sensitivity of the organism.

Background: Severe epistaxis is a frequent emergency condition encountered by otolaryngologists and is often treated with nasal packing. In the event of failure surgical treatment is considered. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Nasal Packing (NP) and Endoscopic Sphenopalatine Artery Ligation (ESPAL) as treatment of severe epistaxis in terms of failures and recurrences including risk factors. Methodology: Retrospective descriptive study of patients with epistaxis treated with NP, admitted to an ENT department from 2011-2017. If initial treatment with NP failed, patients were considered for ESPAL. Results: An analysis of 511 patients was performed. All patients were treated with NP at the time of admission, and 14% of patients were treated with ESPAL due to failure of NP. The majority of patients was only admitted once. Twelve percent were readmitted within 30 days, 7% were readmitted >30 days later. Treatment failure after ESPAL was 7.9%. No significant difference in the risk of readmission was found between patients treated with NP alone and patients treated with ESPAL. Conclusion: The majority of epistaxis patients were effectively treated with NP alone. We found good effect of ESPAL although no significant differences in risk of readmission NP vs. ESPAL were identified.

Aim to improve the quality of life of patients in the early postoperative period after septoplasty. Material and methods. The study involved patients who underwent septoplasty (n=51). The patients were divided into two groups: in group A (n=26) classic intranasal splints were installed at the end of the operation; in group B (n=25) we used the modified intranasal splints with an integrated rigid duct, with a pressure distributor placed mainly in the anterior nasal septum and the latches along the periphery (patent No. 191163). To assess the patients comfort before and on the first day after surgery, a quality of life assessment questionnaire (Sino-Nasal Outcome Test SNOT-20) was used. The headache intensity was evaluated in the early postoperative period using a visual analog pain scale. Statistical data processing was carried out using the STATISTICA 12 software. Results. According to the results of SNOT-20, we obtained a statistically significant (p 0.05) improvement in the quality of life of patients when using our modified splits against the traditional splits. Comparing the data of the SNOT-20 questionnaire and VAS, we found a statistically significant (p 0.05) reduction in pain in the early postoperative period when using our intranasal splints with an integrated air duct and pressure distributor. Conclusion. The use of our modified intranasal splints improves the quality of life of patients in the early postoperative period.

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: One of the most common challenging complications after nasal surgeries is maintaining airways. The study aimed to use an alternative technique instead of nasal packing in the immediate postoperative period undergoing different nasal surgery under general anesthesia regarding airway management. METHODOLOGY: An interventional study was conducted at Aziz Fatimah Trust Hospital, Faisalabad, from March 20, 2018, to January 31, 2019. A total of 100 participants were enrolled in the study divided into two groups (A & B), 50 each. Group A patients were treated postoperatively with a modified nasal airway devised with a Nelton catheter and Group B patients with traditional nasal packing. The participants were assessed on different parameters which were statistically compared and analyzed. RESULTS: Group Descriptive statistics revealed that the Mean±SD of the age of group A and group B patients was 24.28±9.72 and 26.68±11.09 respectively, which had no significant difference between them {p-value (0.008)}. The postoperative parameters such as patient's comfort and sleep, surgeon satisfaction, ease of suction through Nelton catheter, and oxygen saturation were evaluated as significant variables in the evaluation of the study. p-value ≤0.05 and ≤0.005 were considered as significant and highly significant respectively. CONCLUSION: This modified nasal airway has proven to be easily replicable and reliable, and a cost-effective measure elucidated as a potential and exclusive outcome of the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study was to determine the rate of outpatient management in a population of patients undergoing bilateral ethmoidectomy. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the quality of outpatient management (rate of unscheduled overnight admission, readmission rate, complications) and to compare inpatient and outpatient groups to determine which elements of the phenotype and care pathway favored outpatient management. A single-center observational study included 204 patients operated on for bilateral ethmoidectomy. Study variables comprised: type of care pathway (outpatient/inpatient), outpatient quality indicators (unscheduled admission, readmission, complications), care pathway, and population characteristics. One hundred and twenty (58.8%) outpatients were operated on. No deaths occurred. The unscheduled admission rate was 7.5%, and the readmission rate 4.1%; at the P < 0.005 threshold, there were no significant differences between in- and out-patient groups. Outpatients had earlier surgery (P < 0.005), and nasal packing rates and pain on VAS were lower (P < 0.005). Ethmoidectomy could be carried out as an outpatient procedure in 58.8% of cases, with acceptable quality of care. Selection of patients and the organization of a dedicated care pathway seem to be elements favoring this management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem description: Otorhinolaryngology services are not available in all hospitals and atraumatic epistaxis is a common presentation to Emergency Departments (ED). Not all ED staff are experienced in managing epistaxis and there appeared to be a high rate of re-bleeding after treatment provided. We aimed to improve outcome for ED patients presenting with atraumatic epistaxis and staff conditions by creating a Departmental pathway outlining a management plan and ensuring all equipment needed was readily available. Methods: A retrospective 6-month audit was done to assess current management and re-bleed percentage rates post nasal packing. A team was assembled, stocked a trolley, created an Atraumatic epistaxis ED pathway and promoted its use by staff. Repeated Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles were undertaken.Chosen measures were (1) Reduced re-bleed rates post nasal packing from initial audit levels; (2) Increased nasal packing duration; (3) Improved qualitative feedback by ED doctors (4) 100% E.N.T. trolley stock. Results: Audit showed minimal use of vasoconstrictor spray, a 7-hour mean nasal pack duration, a re-bleed rate post nasal packing of 39% and staff reports of difficulties accessing items required.After introduction of the E.N.T. trolley, there was positive staff feedback regarding improved availability of treatment items and full stocking of the trolley was achieved after repeated cycles.Following introduction of the Epistaxis pathway and staff education, average re-bleed rates post nasal packing dropped* from 39% to 20% in the first cycle; 21% in the third cycle; 25% in the fourth cycle and 14% in the fifth cycle- (*Isolated re-bleed average of 40% observed in the second cycle).Mean nasal packing duration increased from 7 h to 9, 10, 10, 12 and 8 h in the 2-monthly cycles successively. Conclusion: The project's aims of improving epistaxis patients' outcomes and improved convenience for ED staff were achieved.

OBJECTIVE To compare the possibility of Post-operative hemorrhage in septoplasty with and without nasal packing among the patients operated at PNS SHIFA hospital Karachi STUDY DESIGN: Comparative Study SETTING: PNS SHIFA hospital Karachi DURATION OF STUDY: Six months, 21-04-2019 to 20-10-2019 PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ninety two patients who underwent septoplasty due to deviation of nasal septum at ENT department of PNS SHIFA were included in the analysis. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group one did not undergo nasal packing after the surgery and group two underwent nasal packing after the surgical procedure. Chi-square was used to see the difference in post-operative hemorrhage, headache, discomfort and septal perforation between the two groups. RESULTS Out of 92 patients included in the final analysis 61 were male and 31 were female. Pot operative bleeding was found in three patients in group one while thirteen patients in group two had bleeding after the procedure. With Pearson chi-square test, we found that post-operative bleeding, headache and discomfort was significantly more in the patients with nasal packing after the procedure of septoplasty due to deviated nasal septum. CONCLUSION Nasal packing emerged as a procedure linked with more complications rather than benefits among the patients undergoing septoplasty in our study. Not only post-operative hemorrhage but also headache and discomfort were more common among the patients with nasal packing as compared to those without nasal packing. Nasal packing after septoplasty should be discouraged without any obvious indication in the patients undergoing septoplasty.

Objective: To assess safety and efficacy of an asymmetrical balloon in the treatment of epistaxis in adult patients (≥18 years) managed in an emergency setting. Methodology: Pilot, open label, monocenter, prospective, interventional non comparative study in adult patients. The patients were hospitalized for 48h, timepoint at which the device was removed. Primary endpoints were the assessment of bleeding arrest and pain score evaluated on a Visual Analogic Scale. Secondary endpoints were the nature and number of adverse events reported and patient quality of life evaluated with the RhinoQoL questionnaire. Results: Ten patients were included, and nine were treated. In Intent to Treat (ITT), bleeding was stopped upon positioning in 9/10 patients. Efficacy was maintained in 8/10 patients during treatment. Pain was moderate at insertion, inflation and during treatment and mild upon and post-removal. Minor bleeding recurrence occurred in two patients during the post-treatment period. The reported adverse events considered device-related were consistent with the ones observed with other intranasal devices. The mean and median RhinoQoL impact scores tend to decrease upon the different control visits. Conclusion: This pilot study provides promising preliminary safety and efficacy data for CAVI-T™ in the management of epistaxis in an emergency setting.

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: One of the most common challenging complications after nasal surgeries is maintaining airways. The study aimed to use an alternative technique instead of nasal packing in the immediate postoperative period undergoing different nasal surgery under general anesthesia regarding airway management. METHODOLOGY: An interventional study was conducted at Aziz Fatimah Trust Hospital, Faisalabad, from March 20, 2018, to January 31, 2019. A total of 100 participants were enrolled in the study divided into two groups (A & B), 50 each. Group A patients were treated postoperatively with a modified nasal airway devised with a Nelton catheter and Group B patients with traditional nasal packing. The participants were assessed on different parameters which were statistically compared and analyzed. RESULTS: Group Descriptive statistics revealed that the Mean±SD of the age of group A and group B patients was 24.28±9.72 and 26.68±11.09 respectively, which had no significant difference between them {p-value (0.008)}. The postoperative parameters such as patient's comfort and sleep, surgeon satisfaction, ease of suction through Nelton catheter, and oxygen saturation were evaluated as significant variables in the evaluation of the study. p-value ≤0.05 and ≤0.005 were considered as significant and highly significant respectively. CONCLUSION: This modified nasal airway has proven to be easily replicable and reliable, and a cost-effective measure elucidated as a potential and exclusive outcome of the present study.

Objective: The aim of study is to find out the better option to manage post-operative septal hematoma between the nasal packing or quilting sutures. Methods: Cross sectional comparative study of 2 groups patients, group [A]; 39 patients have septoplasty with no nasal packing and suturing, while group [B]; 40 patients have septoplasty with nasal packing. The study has been carried out from July 2021 until February 2022 in Kirkuk General Hospital. From all patients take age, gender, pain, and bleeding occurrence after few moments after surgery, then after 1st day and then after seventh day after operation. Also, if patients have synechiae or not. Results: There is significant difference between group A and group B in bleeding at time of operation, group A patient more bleeding. There is significant difference between group A and group B in bleeding at 1st day after operation, group A patient less bleeding. There is significant difference between group A and group B in pain at 1st day after operation, group A patient less bleeding. There is significant difference between group A and group B in pain at 7th day after operation, group A patient less bleeding. Conclusion: Nasal pain, headache, were reduced in the trans - septal suturing group as compared to packing. However, nasal bleeding was present in both the groups. It also proves to be a cost-effective modality and gives a better post-operative quality of life to patients. Hence, we recommend trans-septal suturing as the preferred method over anterior nasal packing in patients after septoplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Nasal packing after an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is a routine practice. There is a very urgent need for a level-I recommendation pertaining to the necessity of these packs and, if required, then the timing of its removal. However, the opponents of this practice mention its various disadvantages, among which infection is the most important. In our study, we have evaluated the bacteriological profile of the nasal packs, following endoscopic anterior skull base surgery. Materials and Methods Thirty consecutive cases (2017–18) of anterior skull base pathologies operated by EEA were included, and preoperative nasal swab and postoperative period, the nasal packs were sent for microbiological culture. The colony of bacteria grew, and clinical condition, histopathology and demographic profile of the patients were noted. Results Of the 30 patients, 40% (n = 12) showed an increase in nasal bacterial flora after packing, with methicillin-sensitive coagulase negative Streptococcus (MSCNS) in three patients, Escherichia fecalis (E. fecalis) in three patients, and methicillin-resistant coagulase negative Streptococcus (MRCNS) in two patients. Other rare organisms grew, including Acinetobacter baumanni with E. fecalis, Acinetobacter baumanni with MRCNS, Citrobacter koseni, and Escherichia fecium (E. fecium) with MRCNS and MRSA in one patient each. Conclusion Packing increases the bacterial load of the nasal cavity. This bacterial flora can be a potential source of meningitis. We advocate that packing should be avoided, and if at all required, should be removed within 3 days. A routine practice of nasal swab in the preoperative period and culture of the packs may give information on the possible organism that may cause meningitis and the appropriate antibiotic sensitivity of the organism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AimTo describe the prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of end stage liver disease (ESLD) patients with severe epistaxis thought to be severe upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (UGIH).MethodsThis observational single center study included all consecutive patients with ESLD and epistaxis identified from consecutive subjects hospitalized with suspected UGIH and prospectively enrolled in our databases of severe UGIH between 1998 and 2011.ResultsA total of 1249 patients were registered for severe UGIH in the data basis, 461 (36.9%) were cirrhotics. Epistaxis rather than UGIH was the bleeding source in 20 patients. All patients had severe coagulopathy. Epistaxis was initially controlled in all cases. Fifteen (75%) subjects required posterior nasal packing and 2 (10%) embolization in addition to correction of coagulopathy. Five (25%) patients died in the hospital, 12 (60%) received orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), and 3 (15%) were discharged without OLT. The mortality rate was 63% in patients without OLT.ConclusionSevere epistaxis in patients with ESLD is (1) a diagnosis of exclusion that requires upper endoscopy to exclude severe UGIH; and (2) associated with a high mortality rate in patients not receiving OLT.

Introduction: Epistaxis is a common otolaryngological emergency condition. It occurs due to local and systemic cause. Local cause lies within the nose bleeding either anterior or posterior. Commonest site of bleeding anterior epistaxis is kiesselbach’s plexus. In posterior epistaxis, it is difficult to locate bleeding site. Epistaxis is controlled by simply pinching of nose, decongested nasal drop and abgel packing. Some cases become more challenging required nasal packing and arterial ligation. Objectives: To study the epidemiological pattern and management of epistaxis. Methods: This was a retrospective study on pattern of epistaxis man­aged at Gandaki Medical College Teaching Hospital over a period from April 2015 to April 2016. Information regarding demographic profile, presentation and management of epistaxis was obtained from the Hospital records, ENT Outpatient clinic, Emergency Department, ENT ward and operation theatre. Results: A total of 78 cases were managed during study period. There was a significant male preponderance with male to female ratio 1.78:1. Patients’ age varied from eight to 80 years with mean age 40.7 years. The peak age of incidence was 21 - 30 years group. Idiopathic nasal bleeding 27 (34.6%) was commonest followed by nasal trauma 23 (29.5%) cases and hypertension 16 (20.5%) cases. Seventeen (21.8%) cases managed in day care basis with decongested nasal drop, chemi­cal cautery and abgel packing. Remaining cases required nasal packing and bipolar cautery and other specific form of treatment. Five (6.4%) cases required sphenopalatine artery ligation with no recurrence of bleeding. Conclusions: Epistaxis is common ENT emergency. Most common causes are idiopathic followed by nasal trauma and hypertension. Prompt management is instituted according to cases. Most of the cas­es are managed by non-surgical method.

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to make a general evaluation of patients who applied to our outpatient clinic with epistaxis. Methods: The files of approximately 300 patients who were admitted to the Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital with the complaint of nasal bleeding between January 2009 and January 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were analyzed in terms of age, gender, month of epistaxis, etiological factors, concomitant diseases, whether blood transfusion was required, treatment methods applied and length of hospital stay. Results: Of the 300 evaluated patients, 128 were female (42.8%) and 172 (57.2%) were male. The mean age of the patients was determined as 34.38 ± 23.63 (min 1-max: 89). The patients applied most frequently in February (14%) and at least in July (2.6%). The number of patients detected idiopathically was 240 (80%). Among the identified reasons, the most frequent use of anticoagulants was 11% and hypertension was 4.6%. Conservative treatment was applied to 98.4% of the patients. Hospitalization periods ranged from 1 to 11 days. Only 2 patients needed blood transfusion. Conclusion: Considering the possible complications and mortality; Taking detailed anamnesis from patients and planning the necessary treatment as soon as possible constitute the basis of diagnosis and treatment management in patients with epistaxis.

Objective: During septoplasty, nasal packing is routinely used by surgeons for hemostasis and balancing the cartilage and bony skeleton of the nose. However, these new techniques are not totally mild and therefore new ways are adopted to check their efficiency and reason their value. The study was performed to compare the use of plastic intranasal splints with or without anterior nasal packing to determine the need of nasal packing after septoplasty. Study Design: Comparative Study. Setting: ISRA University Hyderabad. Period: March 2018 to April 2019. Material & Methods: A total of 50 patients presenting with nasal septum in this period were prospectively examined. For the purpose of comparative study, we divided the patients into two groups: Group A -Patients who underwent septoplasty with packing and Group-B -Patients who underwent septoplasty without packing. We recorded the pain felt using Visual analogue scale before and after the surgery and also noted the Mean Age gender wise and recorded treatment results for statistical analysis using SPSS Version-20. Results: In our data, a total flfty (50) patients comprising 28 Males (68%) and 22 Females (32%) were listed in the study. The mean± standard deviation VAS scores of Group-A was at 5.2 ±0.9 and Group-B is 2.9±0.61 showing less pain in Group B-without splints and packing. However the complication rate in patients without Splints and packing was only 18%. Conclusion: Thus we flnd septoplasty without nasal splints and packing is more effective and cause lesser bleeding and pain to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Following septoplasty, the usual norm is to pack the nose using polyvinyl alcohol or white petroleum jelly impregnated gauze. But due to side effects like pain, respiratory problems, headache or pain during pack removal, trans-septal suturing is recommended as it provides stability and prevents septal hematoma formation without causing the above mentioned complaints. This study aims to conduct an in-depth comparison of the outcomes of the two aforementioned methods in an Indian population. Materials and Methods A prospective randomized comparative study was done for 30 patients between 18-50 years undergoing septoplasty, while excluding those requiring additional surgical interventions. Trans-septal suturing was done for 15 patients and polyvinyl alcohol nasal packing for the rest. Visual Analogue Scale was used to record discomfort levels 1 day post-operatively. A vast multitude of symptoms were assessed during regular visits for 3 months after surgery. Results Post-operatively, nasal pain, headache, dyspnoea, sleep disturbance, post-nasal drip, crusting, and epiphora were found to be reduced in patients who underwent trans-septal suturing when compared with packing, deeming it to be a superior choice of method. However, nasal bleeding was comparable in both groups. Conclusion Trans-septal suturing reduces pack related problems and post-operative complications, without significantly increasing the duration of surgery. Hence, we recommend the practice of placing sutures to positively improve patients’ quality of life post-surgery.

Introduction In an effort to find a comparable but less expensive nasal pack with the qualities of MerocelR,this study was aimed at comparing the clinical efficacy and patient comfort level, while simultaneously using MerocelR and commercially available sponge as packing material in the same patient. Materials and Methods This study included those patients who underwent septoplasty, turbinoplasty or FESS and nasal packing was done randomly with MerocelR and commercially available sponge (polyurethane foam) on the same patient. Patients shared their experience on the symptom questionnaire on the first post-operative day and they underwent sequential diagnostic nasal endoscopy to assess the endoscopic status of the nasal cavity, which were documented meticulously. Result The post-operative bleeding control, pain during pack removal, general satisfaction, willingness to reuse and post-operative adhesion were same for both MerocelR and sponge. Conclusion The innovative technique of using a commonly available, commercially prepared sponge which is as good as MerocelR is well supported due to its efficacy in hemostasis, less mucosal trauma and less pain during pack removal. So it may be used in developing countries where cost is a factor for compliance of patients for undergoing surgeries without compromising on quality.

Introduction In an effort to find a comparable but less expensive nasal pack with the qualities of MerocelR,this study was aimed at comparing the clinical efficacy and patient comfort level, while simultaneously using MerocelR and commercially available sponge as packing material in the same patient. Materials and Methods This study included those patients who underwent septoplasty, turbinoplasty or FESS and nasal packing was done randomly with MerocelR and commercially available sponge (polyurethane foam) on the same patient. Patients shared their experience on the symptom questionnaire on the first post-operative day and they underwent sequential diagnostic nasal endoscopy to assess the endoscopic status of the nasal cavity, which were documented meticulously. Result The post-operative bleeding control, pain during pack removal, general satisfaction, willingness to reuse and post-operative adhesion were same for both MerocelR and sponge. Conclusion The innovative technique of using a commonly available, commercially prepared sponge which is as good as MerocelR is well supported due to its efficacy in hemostasis, less mucosal trauma and less pain during pack removal. So it may be used in developing countries where cost is a factor for compliance of patients for undergoing surgeries without compromising on quality.

Objectives To evaluate the outcome of septoplasty and the effect of bilateral anterior nasal packing (NP) on surgical outcome and postoperative (PO) arterial blood gas levels. Patients and methods A total of 90 patients underwent septoplasty: group I included patients who received PO bilateral anterior NP at the end of surgery for 48 h and group II included patients free of NP. Patients were evaluated clinically using the Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness scale and underwent septoplasty using Cottle’s technique. Arterial blood samples were obtained preoperatively and before NP removal for estimation of arterial blood pH, bicarbonate (HCO3−), partial pressure of O2 (PaO2) and CO2 (PaCO2), and O2 saturation (SaO2) levels. Pain severity was assessed using numeric rating scale at 6 h, D-1, and D-2 PO, and during the first 48 h PO, nasal bleeding in group II was estimated. After NP removal, pack removal-associated pain and amount of bleeding were determined. Results Operations were conducted uneventfully with nonsignificant difference between groups. At 48 h PO, mean PaO2, PaCO2, and SaO2 levels were significantly lower in all patients than preoperative levels, with significantly lower SaO2 and PaCO2 levels in patients of group I than group II. Numeric rating scale pain scores in both groups showed progressive significant decrease till 48 h PO, with significantly lower scores in group II. Removal of NP resulted in pain scored by more than or equal to 4 in 30 patients and induced minimal bleeding, which was significantly lower than bleeding occurred in patients of group II throughout the 48 h PO. All patients enjoyed significant reduction of Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness score, with nonsignificant difference between both groups. Conclusion NP after septoplasty reduced amount of PO bleeding, but pain associated with NP presence and removal-induced deleterious effect on patients’ satisfaction with deleterious effect on arterial blood O2 and CO2 levels but with nonsignificant effect on arterial blood pH or HCO3 concentration.

Abstract Background Epistaxis is the most common emergent consultation to otolaryngology-head & neck surgery (OHNS) and with 60% of the population having experienced an episode and 1.6 in 10,000 requiring hospitalization in their lifetime. In preliminary studies Floseal® (Baxter, USA) Hemostatic Matrix has shown efficacy in up to 80% of persistent anterior epistaxis. We sought to evaluate the clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of Floseal® (Baxter, USA) compared to traditional nasal packing for persistent epistaxis. Methods A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted on all adult patients consulted to the OHNS service at the tertiary referral centers of the University of Alberta Hospital and Royal Alexandra Hospital for persistent epistaxis. Patients were randomized to the Floseal® (Baxter, USA) or traditional packing study arms. Our main clinical outcome measures were: 1) Hemostasis directly following treatment and at 48 h post-treatment, and 2) self-reported patient comfort at 48 h post-treatment. Further, trial data was used for a formal cost-effectiveness analysis to determine incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Univariate sensitivity analysis and uncertainty analysis were performed. Results There were no significant differences between groups for initial hemostasis (76.9% vs. 84.6%, p = 1.000) or, hemostasis at 48 h (76.9% vs. 69.2%, p = 1.000), requirement for admission (15.4% vs. 46.1%, p = 0.2016) or 30-day re-presentation rates (15.4% vs. 46.1%, p = 0.2016). Floseal® (Baxter, USA) was superior for decreased pain during placement (2.42 vs. 7.77, p = 0.0022), treatment (0.50 vs. 4.46, p = 0.0007) and removal (0 vs. 3.85, p = 0.0021). Floseal® (Baxter, USA) provides an average $1567.61 per patient savings from the single-payer system point of view and has an ICER of - $11,891 per re-bleed prevented (95% CI: -$37,658 to +$473). Uncertainty analysis shows that Floseal® has >90% chance of not only being cost-effective, but the dominant (preferred) treatment. Conclusions Floseal® (Baxter, USA) was demonstrated to be an effective, comfortable and cost-effective alternative treatment of persistent epistaxis when compared to traditional packing methods for patients referred to OHNS with a normal coagulation profile. Trial registration Trial registration number: NCT02488135 . Date registered: June 26, 2015.

To compare the efficacies and post operative outcomes of patients with nasal packing with merocel, intranasal splints and merocel along with intra-nasal infant feeding tubes following septo-turbinoplasty, in patients with nasal obstruction secondary to septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy. A prospective study was done in 60 patients of symptomatic deviated nasal septum with inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Septoturbinoplasty was performed. Patients' nasal cavity was packed for 48 h after being randomly divided into 3 groups: (1) packing using merocel, (2) intra-intra nasal septal silicone splint, (3) packing using truncated merocel along with infant feeding tube. Patients were given a questionnaire 24 h post operatively and their reponse was analysed to compare nasal blockage, epistaxis, epiphora and headache. Pain on pack removal was recorded after 48 h. We found that merocel with infant feeding tube had better tolerance than plain merocel in almost all cases, with symptoms of nasal blockage, epiphora, headache and pain on pack removal being lesser than with plain merocel, and comparable to the results produced by nasal splints. Also the epistaxis control in merocel with infant feeding tube was better than with nasal splints. Truncated merocel with infant feeding tubes provides a suitable and cheap replacement for nasal splints which may not be affordable to a lot of patients, or may not in available in many settings. The results are superior to plain merocel and the control of post operative bleeding is better than with intra nasal splints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To do a comparison of the possibility of post-operative hemorrhage with and without nasal packing among the patients undergoing septoplasty. Study Design: Comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: Ear, nose, throat (ENT) Department, Pakistan Naval Ship, Shifa Hospital Karachi, from Apr 2019 to Oct 2019. Methodology: Ninety two patients who underwent septoplasty due to deviation of nasal septum at ENT department of Pakistan Naval Ship Shifa were included in the analysis. Random division of patients was done in both the groups. Group one did not undergo nasal packing after the surgery and group two underwent nasal packing after the surgical procedure. Chi-square was used to see the difference in post-operative hemorrhage, headache, discomfort and septal perforation between the two groups. Results: Out of 92 patients, 61 (66.3%) patients were male while 31 (33.7%) were female. Post operative bleeding was found in three (6.5%) patients in group one while 13 (28.2%) patients in group two had bleeding after the procedure. It was found that post-operative bleeding, headache and discomfort was statistically significant in the group 2, who’s patients had nasal packing after the procedure of septoplasty due to deviated nasal septum. Conclusion: Post-operative hemorrhage, headache and discomfort were more common among the patients with nasal packing as compared to those without nasal packing. Nasal packing after septoplasty should be discouraged without any obvious indication in the patients undergoing septoplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otorhinolaryngology services are not available in all hospitals and atraumatic epistaxis is a common presentation to Emergency Departments (ED). Not all ED staff are experienced in managing epistaxis and there appeared to be a high rate of re-bleeding after treatment provided. We aimed to improve outcome for ED patients presenting with atraumatic epistaxis and staff conditions by creating a Departmental pathway outlining a management plan and ensuring all equipment needed was readily available. A retrospective 6-month audit was done to assess current management and re-bleed percentage rates post nasal packing. A team was assembled, stocked a trolley, created an Atraumatic epistaxis ED pathway and promoted its use by staff. Repeated Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles were undertaken. Chosen measures were (1) Reduced re-bleed rates post nasal packing from initial audit levels; (2) Increased nasal packing duration; (3) Improved qualitative feedback by ED doctors (4) 100% E.N.T. trolley stock. Audit showed minimal use of vasoconstrictor spray, a 7-hour mean nasal pack duration, a re-bleed rate post nasal packing of 39% and staff reports of difficulties accessing items required. After introduction of the E.N.T. trolley, there was positive staff feedback regarding improved availability of treatment items and full stocking of the trolley was achieved after repeated cycles. Following introduction of the Epistaxis pathway and staff education, average re-bleed rates post nasal packing dropped* from 39% to 20% in the first cycle; 21% in the third cycle; 25% in the fourth cycle and 14% in the fifth cycle- (*Isolated re-bleed average of 40% observed in the second cycle). Mean nasal packing duration increased from 7 h to 9, 10, 10, 12 and 8 h in the 2-monthly cycles successively. The project's aims of improving epistaxis patients' outcomes and improved convenience for ED staff were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Septal correction is the commonest surgery by rhinologists worldwide. We aimed at studying the comfort level of the patient with standard postoperative nasal packing with Merocel and placing quilting sutures in septum leaving the nose unpacked in the postoperative period. We conducted the study in the tertiary care centre enrolling 82 patients in a quasi-randomised method of odd and even numbers placing them in the nasal packing group and the quilting group respectively. We used analogue scoring method for subjective assessment of comfort level in the postoperative period and the surgeon objectively assessed the patient on follow up. The results were tabulated and analysed. Postoperative pain, headache and sleep disturbance was significantly more in the nasal packing group. We found that the crusting is commonly seen in patients in the nasal packing group. Quilting the nasal septum and leaving the nasal cavity unpacked increases the comfort level of the patient in the postoperative period. The resultant pain, headache and sleep disturbance caused by nasal packing can be significantly avoided by using quilting the septum without nasal packing. We also observed that by avoiding nasal packing postoperatively, the patients were more comfortable and compliant with the treatment regimen and follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:Several types of nasal packs are used postoperatively in septoplasty. In this study, we compared two commonly used nasal packing materials, the intranasal septal splint with airway and Merocel tampon, in terms of pain, bleeding, nasal obstruction, eating difficulties, discomfort in sleep, and pain and bleeding during removal of packing in the early period.Methods:The study group included 60 patients undergoing septoplasty. Patients were divided into two groups (n=30 in each group). An intranasal splint with airway was used for the patients in the first group after septoplasty, while Merocel nasal packing was used for the second group. Patients were investigated in terms of seven different factors - pain, bleeding while the tampon was in place, nasal obstruction, eating difficulties, night sleep, pain during removal of the nasal packing, and bleeding after removal of packing.Results:There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of pain 24 hours after operation (p=0.05), while visual analog scale (VAS) scores for nasal obstruction, night sleep, eating difficulties, and pain during packing removal were lower in the nasal splint group with a statistically significant difference (p

Objectives Nasal packing after endoscopic sinus surgery is frequently used to control postoperative bleeding, enhance the wound healing process, and prevent lateralization of the middle turbinate, which causes insufficient ventilation. Many biodegradable materials have been developed to reduce pain and mucosal damage during packing removal. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of Guardcel (Genewel Co.) middle meatal packing with a traditional nonabsorbable middle meatal packing, Merocel (Medtronic Xomed), on wound healing and patient satisfaction. Methods In this prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study, we enrolled 32 consecutive patients (64 nostrils) undergoing bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery at Korea University Guro Hospital from February 2015 to August 2015. Guardcel and Merocel were inserted postoperatively into a randomly assigned side. Objective findings about bleeding, hemostasis, adhesion, and infection were evaluated with nasal endoscopy. Patients’ symptoms including pain and nasal obstruction were evaluated with a visual analog scale. Each evaluation was done at 2–3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks after surgery. Results At 2–3 days after endoscopic sinus surgery, the Guardcel side had a significantly less hemostasis time than the Merocel side (P=0.001). During this period, the pain during packing removal was significantly lower on the Guardcel-inserted side than the Merocel-inserted side (P=0.002). At two weeks after surgery, the adhesion score on the Guardcel side was significantly lower than that of the Merocel side (P=0.011). Other parameters during the study follow-up periods were not statistically significant. There were no severe adverse reactions. Conclusion Guardcel, a newly developed packing material, appeared to shorten the hemostasis time and reduce pain sensation at 2–3 days after surgery; it also prevented adhesion formation 2 weeks after surgery when compared with the control. Guardcel can be an effective and safe candidate to replace conventional packing materials after endoscopic sinus surgery.

Background: We measured postoperative anxiety in patients who underwent transseptal suturing or nasal packing after septoplasty. Materials and Methods: Transseptal suturing was performed on Group 1 patients and nasal splints with airway were placed after septoplasty in Group 2 patients. Postoperative 48-h anxiety levels of both groups were measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) clinical assessment scale, prior to removal of nasal packing in Group 2. Results: Transseptal suturing was performed after septoplasty in 28 patients and nasal packing in 34 patients. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory clinical assessment state (STAI-S) and trait (STAI-T) instruments were used to measure postoperative anxiety. The STAI-S scores were found 35.00 in the transseptal suturing group and 43.8 in the nasal packing group; the difference was found significant (p < 0.05). The STAI-T scores were found 42.6 in the transseptal suturing group and 45.7 in the nasal packing group; the difference was not found significant (p > 0.05). The rate of minor hemorrhage was found 10.7% in Group 1 patients. Conclusions: Transseptal suturing is simple and reliable when performed after septoplasty. The technique is painless and comfortable, and reduces patient anxiety (compared to that associated with nasal packing) with only a minor increase in operating time and hemorrhage.

Epistaxis is defined as hemorrhage from nose where source of bleeding is inside the nose. There are many factors which can precipitate epistaxis. A number of treatment modalities are used for its treatment, conservative measures and nasal packing being the commonest method of treatment. Conservative method is an effective method of treatment and avoids potential complications of nasal packing. Objectives: To assess efficacy of conservative mode of treatment for epistaxis. Study Design: Prospective study. Settings: Department of Otorhinolaryngology, E.N.T. Unit-I, Allied Hospital/Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad. Period: Three months i.e. from 16-10-2018 to 15-01-2019. Sample Size: 60. Material and Method: Procedure: 60 patients were enrolled according to inclusive and exclusive criteria. Conservative measures were applied to patients including cold water gargles, nasal pinching and Trotter's method. Patients were observed for control of epistaxis and number of patients noted in whom conservative measures were not successful and nasal packing was done. No patient among the sample needed the surgical intervention due to failed conservative measures or nasal packing. Frequency and percentage calculated for data and chi-square test applied and level of <0.05 taken significant. Results: 60 patients enrolled with age range from 5-75 years and mean age as 39.53 years. Out of 60 patients, 38 were male and 22 were females. Out of 60 patients, 42 patients (70%) were treated successfully using conservative measures and 18 patients (30%) were treated with nasal packing. Conclusion: Based upon results of this study, it is concluded that conservative method of treatment of epistaxis is an effective and safe method and avoids potential complications which can occur due to nasal packing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]