Partial middle turbinectomy by nasotracheal intubation

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Complications
• Nasal Anatomy

Background:

• Nasotracheal intubation is a common procedure.
• Partial middle turbinate avulsion is a rare but known complication.
• Hemorrhage is the typical immediate sequela.

Observation:

• This report details an unusual case of delayed presentation.
• The patient became symptomatic many years after nasotracheal intubation.
• A unilateral nasal obstruction was the presenting symptom.

Findings:

• The avulsed turbinate fragment led to the formation of a nasopharyngeal mass.
• The mass caused chronic symptoms long after the initial injury.
• This highlights a delayed consequence of turbinate trauma.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider turbinate injury in patients with delayed nasal symptoms post-intubation.
• Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• Turbinate avulsion may result in long-term nasopharyngeal abnormalities.