[Nasal packing and stenting]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Modern functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) techniques often deem nasal packing unnecessary.
• However, nasal packing remains a crucial tool in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) practice.
• A review of current knowledge on nasal packing and stents is warranted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a state-of-the-art overview of nasal packing and stents in endonasal surgery.
• To discuss the indications, benefits, and risks associated with their use.
• To explore modern alternatives and their implications for wound healing and patient comfort.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and surgical practices regarding nasal packing and sinus stents.
• Analysis of the properties and effects of conventional and modern nasal packing materials.
• Evaluation of evidence for nasal occlusion techniques and frontal sinus stenting.

Main Results:

• Conventional nasal packing should be smooth to minimize mucosal damage and improve healing.
• Modern nasal packing materials, like hemostatic/resorbable types, aim to avoid pressure but can cause synechiae and foreign body reactions.
• Nasal taping offers a simple method for moist wound healing or dry nose management.
• Frontal sinus stenting is reserved for cases where outflow tract reconstruction is challenging.

Conclusions:

• Careful selection of nasal packing materials is crucial to balance efficacy with minimizing adverse effects.
• Innovative approaches like nasal taping can enhance endonasal wound healing.
• Frontal sinus stenting should be employed judiciously for specific anatomical challenges.