From Dry Cavities to Healing Pathways: Innovations in Managing Empty Nose Syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Rhinology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a rare and under-researched condition.
• Current understanding of ENS pathophysiology and management lacks consensus.
• There is a need to explore and evaluate novel treatment strategies for ENS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and critically evaluate emerging treatment options and techniques for empty nose syndrome.
• To synthesize current evidence on the efficacy of newer ENS interventions.
• To provide insights into optimal management strategies for patients with ENS.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review from 1970 to 2024.
• Comprehensive search across major databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Google Scholar).
• Categorization of identified articles based on the level of evidence.

Main Results:

• 18 relevant studies were selected from 560 identified papers.
• Multiple treatment techniques exist, but consensus on the best approach is lacking.
• Evidence on the effectiveness of newer treatments for ENS is still evolving.

Conclusions:

• Turbinate resection should be performed judiciously; invasive surgery is a last resort.
• Conservative measures like nasal humidification and patient education are first-line treatments.
• Early diagnosis and cautious use of screening tools are recommended for managing ENS.