Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Batten Grafts in Pediatric Caudal Septoplasty: A Prospective Observational Study
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1Surgery Department, College of Medicine, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia. aaalshehrie@nu.edu.sa.
Insights
Batten grafts effectively improve nasal function in pediatric septoplasty for caudal septal deviation. This study found significant improvements in breathing and minimal complications, indicating a safe surgical option.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Rhinology
Background:
- Caudal septal deviation can significantly impair nasal function in pediatric patients.
- Surgical correction often requires cartilage grafting to restore septal support and nasal patency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of using batten grafts in pediatric septoplasty for caudal septal deviation.
- To assess the impact of batten grafts on nasal function and postoperative outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective analysis of 29 pediatric patients (aged 4+) undergoing septoplasty with batten grafts.
- Nasal function assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores.
- Follow-up conducted over a 6-month period.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in nasal function, with mean NOSE scores decreasing from 86.03 to 12.76 (p < 0.001).
- VAS scores improved from 3 to 9 at 1 month and remained stable at 6 months (p < 0.001).
- 75.9% of patients experienced no complications; minor adverse effects included crustation and residual deviation.
Conclusions:
- Batten grafts are a safe and effective technique for pediatric caudal septoplasty, enhancing nasal airflow.
- The procedure leads to substantial improvements in patient-reported nasal obstruction symptoms.
- Further investigation is warranted regarding long-term effects on facial growth and aesthetics.
Purpose:
This study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of batten grafts in pediatric septoplasty for caudal septal deviation, focusing on nasal function and postoperative outcomes.
Methods:
A prospective analysis of 29 pediatric patients aged 4 years and older assessed nasal function preoperatively and postoperatively using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) throughout the 6-month follow-up period.
Results:
Significant improvements in nasal function were noted, with the mean NOSE score decreasing from 86.03 preoperatively to 12.76 at 6 months (p < 0.001). VAS scores improved from a median of 3 preoperatively to 9 at 1 month, remaining stable at 6 months (p < 0.001). Most patients (75.9%) experienced no complications, with minimal adverse effects such as nasal crustation and residual deviation.
Conclusion:
Batten grafts in pediatric caudal septoplasty are a safe and effective option for improving nasal function, though further research is needed to assess long-term effects on facial growth and aesthetics.
Level Of Evidence Iii:
This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

