Endoscopic Sphenopalatine Artery Cauterization in Refractory Hypertensive Epistaxis

Epistaxis is a commonly occurring phenomenon which is defined as "bleeding from inside the nose" and often presents as an emergency. The management of epistaxis involves many factors with regard to the treatment and ultimate control of the condition. Each patient presenting with epistaxis should be well assessed clinically and managed accordingly. Endoscopic sphenopalatine artery cauterization is a safe, simple and effective procedure in the management of refractory epistaxis. Moreover, in view of minimal morbidity, higher success rate, shorter hospital stays and higher patient satisfaction, our current practice is to consider this treatment option in the management of cases not responding to conservative treatment modalities. A total of 11 patients (8 males and 3 females) underwent sphenopalatine artery cauterization during the study period. All patients were hypertensive and were refractory to treatment with general measures, anterior nasal packing and Foley catheter. The mean age of the study population was 58.36 and the range was 39-70 years. The epistaxis was rapidly controlled in all patients without any intraoperative or postoperative complications. The follow up period was 60-90 days. Strict control of hypertension was done throughout the follow up period. None of the patients developed epistaxis in the follow up period. The sphenopalatine artery cauterization technique using nasal endoscope was safe, simple, fast and effective with low rates of morbidity and complications for the management of refractory epistaxis. It was concluded that endoscopic sphenopalatine artery cauterization should be considered as an immediate second line treatment where conservative measures fail and it is proved to be of low morbidity and cost effective.