Publication:

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

Background 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.

Methods 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.

Results 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.

Conclusions We conclude that trans-septal quilting suture and intranasal silicone splints are both equally effective in preventing complications following septoplasty.