Operation on a broken nose
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A broken nose is a very common injury that can occur, for example, during sports or physical work. Usually the nasal septum (nasal septum) is broken. In the event of force majeure and force, neighboring bone structures such as the ethmoid bone, the forehead or the upper jawbone can also be involved.
A broken nose can heal without surgery. If the bone parts are not displaced, the nasal bones grow back together by themselves. Displaced fractures in which the nose is crooked require reduction. The nose is returned to its original shape. This is done under local or intubation anesthesia. The displaced bone parts are then moved from the inside into their anatomically correct position and then fixed with a metal or plaster splint. No external cuts are necessary.
The repositioning should be done no later than eight days after the fracture, otherwise formal defects such as a saddle nose or a crooked nose may remain. The operation is similar to that of a septoplasty. In the event of broken debris, external exposure is necessary. Here cuts are made from the outside.
Septoplasty
A Septoplasty is a procedure that is performed when the nasal septum is bent beyond its natural dimension. Naturally, the nasal septum is never completely straight, this neither hampers the breathing nor the quality of life in everyday life. However, if the nasal septum is bent, it can Difficulty breathing, sleep disorders, snoring, Sinus infections and Sore throat to lead. The development of otitis media, olfactory disorders, nosebleeds and headaches can also be the consequences disturbed nasal ventilation be.
A broken nasal bone is a possible cause of a displacement of the nasal septum and may require semptoplasty. The treating physicians determine whether a septoplasty is necessary by inspecting the nose. Endoscopy and X-rays can be used for a more precise diagnosis. The latter is particularly important if surrounding bone structures, such as the paranasal sinuses, are also to be examined. The procedure as such is carried out while preserving the septal cartilage, which distinguishes it from the Septal resection delimits. The pieces of cartilage are gently straightened, put back together and then left in the nose. To be stabilized Plastic plates, so-called Splints, or foils are taken, which are sewn to the corrected nasal septum on both sides. These will be after about 5-7 days away. After surgery on the nasal septum, there is often a Nasal packing inserted into the nose. She stops the bleeding. After a few days this will also be pulled.
Extended surgical measures
A Nasal bone fracture can entail certain complications or involve the surrounding bone structures. An important and common consequence of the nasal bone fracture is this Septal or septum hematoma. This is a Hemorrhage between Perichondrium (Cartilage skin) and cartilage, some of which can have life-threatening consequences. This includes, for example, meningitis, Sinus thrombosis, Abscesses and infections. The septal hematoma is Rhinoscopy (Nasoscopy) and then mostly surgically rehabilitated. A cut is made (Incision) into the nasal septum, through which the hematoma is then suctioned off. After the operation, there is often a Nasal packing inserted into the nose to stop the bleeding. This will be removed after a few days. If the hematoma has already led to an infection or an abscess, antibiosis is indicated.
What to watch out for
There are certain things to consider before operating a nasal bone fracture. Medicines included in the Blood clotting intervening (e.g. Marcumar) must be discontinued beforehand. However, the attending physician will explain this to you in detail. Otherwise there may be increased bleeding during the operation. At a outpatient procedure may usually no more eating four hours beforehand and no more drinking two hours beforehand. You should refrain from smoking before the operation. In the case of inpatient interventions, the time intervals increase.
Complications and consequences
It is quite normal to have your nose up for a few days after surgery swollen and reddened is. Also Pain can occur. It can also Bleeding, Bruising and Secondary bleeding occur. If nerves were injured during the operation, sensitive paresthesia or numbness are possible. As with any surgical procedure, it can too Wound healing disorders or infections come. It can also affect the aesthetic appearance and shape of the nose by excessive Scarring or Misalignments be affected. After the operation, the Nasal breathing and the ability to smell may be limited. The so-called Atrophic rhinitis occur, which is popularly known as "Smelly nose" designated". This is a Death of the nasal mucosa, which goes hand in hand with reduced ventilation and an increasing colonization of pathogens. Usually this complication cannot be reversed. Finally, of course, allergic reactions to the surgical material can also occur.
forecast
As a rule, nasal bone fractures have a good prognosis, so that a satisfactory result, both aesthetically and functionally, can be achieved. However, it can often only be estimated exactly after a few weeks, when the nose has puffed up. If there are deformities and breathing difficulties, another corrective operation can be carried out after a while.
After the operation
After the operation is the nose very sensitive. In order to avoid complications, it must be spared. The patient should use them for several days if possible don't blow your noseso as not to damage the freshly operated structures.At the Sneeze the mouth should be opened particularly wide. The head should not be bent forward. The effects of heat on the nose (e.g. when bathing) should also be avoided. Generally from physical stress or even Violence to look at the face (e.g. during sports). When sleeping, it is advisable to lie on your back. Glasses should not be left on the nose for too long as their weight also puts a strain on the operated nose. To reduce the swelling, it makes sense to gently cool the eyelids several times a day. It should nevertheless Complications or excessive pain, a doctor must be consulted immediately.
