Nasal Septal Perforation Management and Outcomes

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Nasal septal perforation is a challenging condition that can pose significant quality-of-life impacts to patients. Based on our institutional experience of performing nearly 500 nasal septal perforation repairs, our aim is to comprehensively discuss the evaluation and management of nasal septal perforations. The focus of this session is as follows:

1) review systematic methods to evaluate perforations based on history, clinical exam findings, and patient reported outcome measures
2) discuss conservative management strategies for management of septal perforations
3) review surgical techniques and patient reported outcomes for nasal septal perforation repair

The development of the NOSE-Perf scale, the first validated patient reported outcome instrument specific for septal perforations, has enabled our field to conduct impactful outcomes research. Outcomes research utilizing the NOSE-Perf instrument will be presented. There are a variety of effective surgical techniques for nasal septal perforation repair. Cases will be presented to highlight repair techniques and the nuances of surgical repair.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Implement standardized evaluation of nasal septal perforation

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Recognize important factors to consider when determining management of a nasal septal perforation

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Demonstrate knowledge of various repair techniques and nuances of nasal septal perforation repair

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: There is a need for standardized evaluation of nasal septal perforations and outcomes. This remains a challenging condition and there remains a need for effective treatment of this condition.