An observation of the effects of paraffin paste on nasal epistaxis balloons

There have been many conflicting reports on the effects of paraffin paste on rubber nasal balloons used in the treatment of epistaxis. We set up a bench top experiment to observe the effects of paraffin paste (Vaseline) on three types of commonly used nasal balloons, namely Brighton balloons, Simpson balloons and Foley catheters whilst simulating their use in clinical practice. Our observations show that paraffin paste damages the rubber balloons of Foley catheter and causes them to rupture within seventy-two hours. Brighton and Simpson balloons did not rupture during the five days of our study. We conclude that Brighton and Simpson epistaxis balloons are better designed to withstand rupture when used in conjunction with paraffin paste.