Outcome of Absorbable Plate Insertion in Septoplasty for Nasal Bone Fracture Patients: Septal Straightening Effect

Various synthetic materials, often used for intranasal packing rather than for structural struts, have been studied for use in septoplasty. The authors' method involved the use of an absorbable plate to support the corrected septum, aid immediate straightening, and provide structural support to withstand pressure during the healing period.

Between October 2010 and April 2024, 20 patients with nasal septum deviation underwent septoplasty with an intranasal absorbable plate. The surgical approach involved meticulous dissection of the mucoperichondrium, followed by insertion and fixation of a personalized-length absorbable plate along the nasal septum. Surgical outcomes were evaluated using preoperative and postoperative facial bone CT scans, with additional scans performed at 3 to 4 months after surgery to further assess the effectiveness of correction. The authors' analysis focused on measuring the angles of septal deviation to determine the extent of postoperative improvements.

Functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory in all patients. The average measurement of the deviated angle of the septum before surgery was 132.95 degrees. The average measurement of the deviated angle of the septum postoperatively was 150.2 degrees. The average measurement of the deviated angle of the septum measured after the follow-up period was 152.8 degrees.

Absorbable plates prove to be excellent artificial struts as they provide sufficient strength to promptly correct a deviated septum and maintain optimal surgical outcomes in both chronic and acute cases of septal deviation.