Alvarez H, Osorio J, De Diego J I, Prim M P, De La Torre C, Gavilan J
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Infantil de México 'Federico Gómez', Mexico City, Mexico.
Auris Nasus Larynx. 2000 Oct;27(4):339-42. doi: 10.1016/s0385-8146(00)00071-7.
To study the results of surgical treatment and sequelae in nasal septum injuries in children.
Between January 1990 and December 1997, 16 pediatric patients with septal haematoma and/or abscess were treated. Mean age was 5 years (range: 2-14 years). Thirteen were male (81.2%), and three were female (18.8%). In nine cases (56.2%) the disease was a consequence of a minor trauma. Only two children had nasal fracture associated (12.5%). Minimum follow-up after the first visit was 10 months (mean, 3 years).
All cases were surgically treated. Minor sequelae were observed in six cases (37.5%), and major ones in ten patients (62.5%). In this latter group, multiple reconstructive procedures were needed.
It is necessary to be aware of the possibility of haematoma and abscess of the nasal septum. Major sequelae can be also expected after cases following minor traumas.