Patient satisfaction after closed reduction of nasal fractures.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of closed reduction from a patient's point of view, because there is increasing evidence that closed reduction of nasal fractures fails to address deformities of the cartilaginous nasal framework and the septum.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of 62 patients who underwent a closed reduction of nasal fracture between July 1, 2002, and June 30, 2005. All patients were interviewed regarding the esthetic and functional outcomes after closed reduction.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (29%) expressed dissatisfaction with the esthetic outcome of the reduction, and 18 (29%) said they would consider further surgery to correct the residual nasal deformity.

CONCLUSIONS

A stringent preoperative assessment of the nasal fracture, other nasal deformities, and nasal function is essential before offering patients a simple closed reduction of their nasal fractures. A septorhinoplasty, as the definitive procedure, should be offered to patients when a closed reduction is deemed unable to address all deformities.