A novel technique to repair moderate-sized nasoseptal perforations.

OBJECTIVES

To describe a novel technique for closure of moderate-sized nasoseptal perforations and to review the current literature on various techniques for closure of nasoseptal perforations.

DESIGN

Retrospective review.

SETTING

Academic research.

PATIENTS

We performed a retrospective review of a successful novel technique that has been used at a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery practice for closure of nasoseptal perforations during 3 years (January 1, 2008, to January 1, 2011).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Medical records were reviewed to identify patient characteristics, symptoms, causes of nasoseptal perforations, and outcomes, including patient satisfaction and rate of recurrent nasoseptal perforation.

RESULTS

During 3 years at our institution, 7 patients were identified with nasoseptal perforations that had been closed using bilateral mucosal advancement flaps (one inferiorly based flap advanced from the floor of the nose and another superiorly based flap advanced from the lateral nasal wall). The nasoseptal perforations ranged from 0.6 to 1.6 cm. Most patients had excellent outcomes, with resolution of symptoms and no recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasoseptal perforations have traditionally been closed using 2 superiorly based flaps or 2 inferiorly based flaps. We present a novel technique combining both flaps for closure of moderate-sized nasoseptal perforations. This procedure decreases the risk for recurrence of the perforation, necrosis of the flaps, and development of a new perforation.