Experimental septoplasty in the growing cat. A histological study.

Surgery on the nasal septum of a child is still a controversial issue, due to the fear of nasal growth inhibition. To elucidate the role that the Cottle premaxilla approach septoplasty play in the long term result, an operation using this technique was done in the growing cat, but no nasal packing nor stenting was applied. In several cases postoperative sequelae occurred, such as septal perforations, synnechia and thickening of the septum, due to dislodged cartilages. The complications were judged to be minor relative to the overall results. They have, however, to be carefully considered and weighed against the benefit of the operation.