Nasal Foam Packing for Epistaxis: What are the Ideal Characteristics?

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is a frequent emergency, often managed without standardized protocols.
• Digital trauma in children and hypertension in the elderly are common causes.
• Efficient nasal packing is crucial for managing epistaxis effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate suitable properties for efficient nasal packing in adult epistaxis.
• To compare the efficacy of a novel foam-based nasal packing with a commercial option.

Main Methods:

• Two cadaver heads were used to simulate adult nasal cavities.
• Nasal packing efficacy was tested using a blue-dyed saline solution and a sphygmomanometer to mimic blood pressure.
• A condom-wrapped foam packing was compared against Merocel packing.

Main Results:

• The condom-wrapped foam packing (2.0 cm thick, 11.0 cm long) resisted a higher pressure (250 mmHg) compared to Merocel packing (220 mmHg).
• Application difficulty was similar for both packing types.

Conclusions:

• A 2.0 cm thick, condom-wrapped foam packing is suitable for managing epistaxis.
• This novel packing method demonstrates superior pressure resistance for effective epistaxis management.