No abstract

We used to substitute this nasal orthosis with the plastic cap of a large needle that was cut and then wrapped with a petrolatum-coated gauze and an antibiotic ointment (Figure 1). However, we would like to present another method that we believe is simpler, less painful, and as effective: using a foam earplug.Step 1: the earplug is coated with an antibiotic ointment or petrolatum (Figure 2) and shaped using the thumb and the index to fit the patient's nostril.Step 2: the coated earplug is placed inside the patient's nostril (Figure 3) and will then automatically expand.Step 3: the earplug may be secured with a small piece of medical tape (Figure 4).We recommend using it for at least the first 3 days after surgery.Patients' comfort seems better than with other techniques. If the earplug falls, then the patient may easily replace it with a new one, bought in advance. The earplug may also be routinely replaced by a new one once a day. The size and material of these foam earplugs prevent them from being inhaled by the patient.