Prevention of nostril laceration in endonasal drilling: The use of protective ear speculum

Abstract

Key Points: • The use of drills in endoscopic rhinosurgery allows for precise, safe and rapid removal of solid bone in standard procedures such as dacryo-cysto-rhinostomia and has become indispensable in complicated surgical interventions such as median maxillectomy • Conventional otologic drills are often used as they are readily available, economical and very robust in use • Injuries caused by the rotating shaft of the burr are rare yet it can represent a serious complication following drilling procedures in extended endonasal surgery • The use of low-cost, reusable otology speculum eliminated this complication of nasal entrance lacerations throughout our institution to this date • As a simple safety measurement, we can recommend the application of ear speculum as a reliable protection against drill related nasal entrance laceration