Surgical closure of nasoseptal defects: postoperative patient satisfaction

Nasoseptal defects are rather rare. The current therapy of choice is surgical closure. Objective clinical factors prove the efficacy of surgical intervention; however, to establish the quality of the procedure patients' subjective quality of life assessments must also be considered.

31 patients participated in the study. The operation was always carried out according to the superior and inferior bipedicle bridge flap technique according to Schultz-Coulon. The patient survey was performed retrospectively, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using two different questionnaires: the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 20 German Adapted Version (SNOT-20 GAV SDT) expanded by Neumann [2010], and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI).

Evaluation of the GBI revealed significant improvements in the total score and the subscore 'general health' and therefore an improved quality of life. Evaluation of the SNOT-20 GAV SDT showed a significant reduction in the total score and a significant reduction in the primary nasal symptoms as well as in the items typical of septum defects and therefore less discomfort caused by the nasoseptal defect.

As the gold standard for treatment of septum perforation, successful surgical closure leads to an improvement in subjective quality of life.