Comparison of outcomes using conventional nasal pack with hydroxylated polyvinyl acetate pack following Septoplasty

Abstract

To compare the conventional anterior nasal packing (CANP) with Hydroxylated polyvinyl acetate pack (Merocele) after septoplasty, in terms of pain, bleeding, and postoperative complications like synechia formation. Material and MethodsThis study was a prospective, randomized, interventional study conducted among 48 patients. Patients underwent septoplasty under general anesthesia for symptomatic deviated nasal septum. In all the 48 patients, post-surgery, one nasal cavity was packed with a conventional nasal pack and the other cavity was packed with Merocele nasal pack. Pain and bleeding were evaluated during pack removal on the third post-operative day. Synechia was assessed at the 8th postoperative week (2 months) follow-up. The results were compared between the two groups. ResultOut of 48 patients who underwent surgery, 3 patients were lost to follow-up. So, results were compared between 45 patients. Pain and bleeding during removal of conventional and merocele packs were not seen to be statistically significant. Post-operative synechia was not seen in any of the nasal cavities, irrespective of the packing material used. ConclusionHence, in terms of pain, bleeding during pack removal, and post-operative synechia; conventional and merocele nasal packs were comparable and there was no significant difference in using either of the materials post-septoplasty..