Publication:

Unusual presentation of a unilateral choanal atresia in an adult: a case report

Choanal atresia is an uncommon congenital abnormality of nasal airway characterised by the complete obliteration of choana. Unilateral choanal atresia is more common as compared to bilateral choanal atresia. A case of unilateral nasal obstruction in an adult which was initially diagnosed as chronic rhinosinusitis and was posted for endoscopic sinus surgery at a secondary referral hospital. Increased nasal bleeding during the surgery led to the surgeon abandoning the procedure and was referred to Mysore Medical College and Research Institute. On detailed evaluation, unilateral choanal atresia of right sided was noted. It was subsequently managed by endoscopic recanalization of the posterior choana. This case of unilateral choanal atresia in an adult is being reported here for the rarity of its presentation. A high level of clinical suspicion is necessary to diagnose such cases and to prevent avoidable complications during routine endoscopic surgeries. Resection of posterior part of nasal septum to create uni-choana negates the need for stenting post-operatively.