Treatment of nasal obstruction in the posttraumatic nose.

The sequelae of trauma to the nose include nasal deformity and nasal obstruction that can have a long-term negative impact on patient quality of life. Successful management of posttraumatic nasal obstruction relies on a detailed history, careful analysis, and accurate diagnosis. Dividing the nose into horizontal thirds assists in preoperative analysis as well as surgical treatment. Adequate treatment of posttraumatic nasal obstruction must address deflection of the bony nasal pyramid, septal deformities (especially caudal or dorsal), turbinate hypertrophy, and incompetence of internal and external nasal valves. Treatment must balance the seemingly disparate goals of re-establishing structure, improving contour and esthetics, as well as restoring the nasal airway.