Management of Postsurgical Empty Nose Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a complex condition characterized by the perception of nasal obstruction.
• It is often linked to excessive removal of nasal turbinate tissue, particularly the inferior turbinate.
• Patients typically experience significant distress and a fixation on their breathing difficulties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the characteristics and diagnostic methods for empty nose syndrome.
• To review current treatment strategies, including conservative and surgical options.
• To evaluate the efficacy of interventions and discuss prevention.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical data on ENS.
• Description of diagnostic tools such as validated patient questionnaires and the office cotton test.
• Analysis of treatment outcomes, including topical therapies, behavioral interventions, and surgical reconstruction.

Main Results:

• Diagnostic criteria include subjective sensation of obstruction and objective findings.
• Topical moisturization and behavioral treatments offer symptomatic relief.
• Surgical reconstruction has demonstrated promising long-term efficacy in managing ENS.

Conclusions:

• Empty nose syndrome is a challenging diagnosis requiring a multi-faceted approach.
• Minimizing turbinate tissue resection during nasal surgeries is crucial for prevention.
• Surgical intervention offers a viable and effective treatment option for refractory cases.