Septum Deviation and Treatment

What is Septum?

The septum is a structure made of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two parts. It plays a critical role in the correct functioning of the respiratory tract. Normally, the septum is located in the center of the nose. However, if the septum is curved or bent to the sides, this condition is called “deviated septum”.

Why Does Deviated Septum Occur?

Deviated septum can occur for many different reasons:

• Congenital anomalies: Some individuals are born with a curved septum.

• Traumas Impacts, accidents or injuries to the nose can cause the septum to curve.

• Growth Related Changes: Bone and cartilage structures in the body grow at different speeds and become incompatible, which can cause deviation.

What are the Symptoms?

Deviated septum can be mild or severe. Symptoms usually depend on the degree of curvature:

• Nasal congestion

• Sleep problems, snoring

• Unilateral respiratory distress

• Recurrent sinus infections

• Nosebleeds

• Feeling of pressure or pain in the face

Diagnosis of Septum Deviation

A deviated septum is diagnosed with a detailed nasal examination and sometimes endoscopic examination. Your doctor may use the necessary imaging techniques (for example, tomography) to visualize the internal structure of the nose.

Treatment Options

The method of treatment of a deviated septum varies depending on the patient’s symptoms and the severity of the deviation:

Medical Treatment

In cases of mild deviation, medication can be used to reduce nasal congestion. This treatment may include the following elements:

• Decongestants

• Antihistamines

• Saline nasal sprays

Surgical Treatment Septoplasty

In cases where medical treatment is inadequate, septoplasty surgery is preferred. Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to restore the septum to a proper position. The main objectives of this procedure are:

• Opening the nasal airway

• Improving respiratory quality

• Reducing sleep problems

How is Septoplasty Performed?

• The surgery is usually performed under local or general anesthesia.

• The surgeon reaches the septum by making an incision in the nose.

• The curve is corrected and, if necessary, excess bone or cartilage tissue is removed.

• No external incision is left.

• A nasal tampon or silicone splint can be used after surgery.

Postoperative Recovery Process

• Patients can usually return to their daily lives within 1-2 weeks after surgery.

• There may be side effects such as mild swelling, bruising or nasal congestion.

• Full recovery time varies between 3-6 months.

What are the Risks of Septoplasty?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks in septoplasty:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Change in the shape of the nose

• Persistent lethargy

• Perforation (perforation) of the septum

Deviated septum is a condition that negatively affects the quality of daily life. However, it may be possible to get rid of this problem completely with appropriate treatment methods. If you are experiencing problems such as nasal congestion, snoring or recurrent sinus infections, you can get information about the treatment of deviated septum by consulting an ENT specialist.