Septal perforation and bilateral partial middle turbinate necrosis after bilateral sphenopalatine artery ligation.

OBJECTIVE

To report previously unreported complications of bilateral sphenopalatine artery ligation.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We present the case of a 45-year-old man who underwent bilateral sphenopalatine artery ligation to control intractable posterior epistaxis. After four months, he re-presented with nasal obstruction and crusting.

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

Examination under general anaesthesia showed posterior septal perforation and bilateral necrosis of the lower parts of the middle turbinates. The necrotic parts were excised. The patient had no more complaints.

CONCLUSION

Following sphenopalatine artery occlusion, ischaemic necrosis is a potential risk in anatomical areas that receive their only arterial supply from this artery. The staging of bilateral sphenopalatine artery occlusion needs to be studied.