Rapid Rhino versus Merocel nasal packs in septal surgery.

Authors :: Hesham A
Ghali A
Source :: The Journal of laryngology and otology [J Laryngol Otol] 2011 Dec; Vol. 125 (12), pp. 1244-6. Date of Electronic Publication: 2011 Aug 19.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Objective: To compare Rapid Rhino and Merocel packs for nasal packing after septoplasty, in terms of patient tolerance (both with the pack in place and during removal) and post-operative complications.<br />Materials and Methods: Thirty patients (aged 18-40 years) scheduled for septoplasty were included. Following surgery, one nasal cavity was packed with Rapid Rhino and the other one with Merocel. Patients were asked to record pain levels on a visual analogue score, on both sides, with the packs in situ and during their removal the next day. After pack removal, bleeding was compared on both sides.<br />Results: The mean ± standard deviation pain score for the Rapid Rhino pack in situ (4.17 ± 1.78) was less than that for the Merocel pack (4.73 ± 2.05), but not significantly so (p = 0.314). The mean pain score for Rapid Rhino pack removal (4.13 ± 1.76) was significantly less that that for Merocel (6.90 ± 1.67; p = 0.001). Bleeding after pack removal was significantly less for the Rapid Rhino sides compared with the Merocel sides (p <0.05).<br />Conclusion: Rapid Rhino nasal packs are less painful and cause less bleeding, compared with Merocel packs, with no side effects. Thus, their use for nasal packing after septal surgery is recommended.