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Published on: April 7, 2015
Unusual septoplasty complication: Streptococcus viridans endocarditis
1Department of Otolaryngology, National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA.
Abstract:
Infection is an infrequently reported complication following septoplasty and septorhinoplasty. Among the recognized but rare infections are toxic shock syndrome, spinal osteomyelitis, meningitis, septic cavernous sinus thrombosis and endocarditis. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose these infections early and thereby minimize morbidity and mortality. We present a case of endocarditis following septoplasty in a patient who had no identifiable preoperative risk factors but who experienced recurrent fever and chills postoperatively.
Insights
Infections after septoplasty are rare but serious. This case highlights endocarditis, a heart valve infection, developing post-surgery, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Septoplasty and septorhinoplasty are common procedures.
- Infections are infrequent but recognized complications.
- Rare infections include TSS, osteomyelitis, meningitis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, and endocarditis.
Observation:
- A patient developed endocarditis after septoplasty.
- The patient had no preoperative risk factors for infection.
- Recurrent fever and chills were noted postoperatively.
Findings:
- Endocarditis can occur following septoplasty even without preoperative risk factors.
- Early diagnosis of post-septoplasty infections is crucial.
- Prompt identification minimizes patient morbidity and mortality.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosing rare infections post-septoplasty.
- Timely intervention for endocarditis can prevent severe complications.
- This case underscores the importance of considering endocarditis in patients with postoperative fever after nasal surgery.
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