[The incidence of septal deviation in newborns]

To determine the incidence of septum deviation and dislocation in newborns and to investigate relationships between these pathologies and maternal causes and the mode of delivery.

The study included 195 mothers and 200 newborns, of which 10 were twins. Vaginal and cesarean deliveries were performed in 147 (73.5%) and 53 (26.5%) newborns, respectively. All newborns were examined with the use of anterior rhinoscopy. The nasal pyramid, columella, and septum were assessed to detect septal deviation or dislocation.

Twenty-three cases (15.6%) of vaginal delivery had septal deviation, while five (3.4%) had septal dislocation. In the newborns delivered by cesarean section, eight (15.1%) had septal deviation, but none had dislocation. Significant correlations were noted between pregnancy, delivery period, the way of delivery and the incidence of septal deviation and columella dislocation (p < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between head circumference and columella dislocation (p < 0.05).

Since early reconstruction of the potential pathologies may be problem-solving, a careful rhinologic examination should be carried out in the newborns who have prolonged delivery, increased head circumference, and vaginal delivery.