Role of endoscopic septoplasty in the treatment of atypical facial pain

Background: An endoscopically performed septoplasty enables correction of deformities under superior visualization with limited tissue trauma and offers marked teaching advantages. Objective: To investigate the role of endoscopic septoplasty in the treatment of atypical facial pain caused by septal contact points. In addition to describing the technique, we also intended to outline favourable selection criteria for patients who may benefit from this procedure. Method: Thirteen patients with unilateral facial pain and septal contact points with lateral nasal wall structures who met our inclusion criteria were selected for endoscopic septoplasty. Results: The follow-up period ranged from 7 to 20 months postoperatively. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Seven of 13 (54%) patients were "completely cured" of their facial pain and another 5 patients (38.5%) were "significantly improved." Only one patient did not improve following surgery. Conclusions: Endoscopic septoplasty is a useful approach for dealing with some septal abnormalities and can be very effective in the treatment of atypical facial pain in the appropriately selected patient.