Patients' satisfaction after nasal septal and turbinate surgery. Results of a questionnaire

Introduction: Regarding the satisfaction of patients efficiency and outcome of surgery on the nasal septum and the turbinates regularly is the topic of contoversal discussion and occasionally some health authorities doubt there is an indication for these procedures in general. Subjective and objective evaluation of surgical outcome do not necessarily match in all cases. Methods: A standardized questionnaire was sent to patients having undergone surgery on the nasal septum and the turbinates 33 - 45 months ago at a university hospital and a non-university hospital. Topics (10 all together) were e.g.: nasal aeration, sense of smell, rhinorrhea, snoring, general condition. Statistic significance of each parameter was verified. Results: 138 questionnaires were reviewed. 82% of the candidates reported better aeration of the nose after surgery. 71% stated to have benefited from the operation. A relevant positive effect on snoring, rhinorrhea, headache and sense of smell could not be proved. The results did no different whether surgery was performed at a university hospital or at a non-university-hospital. Older patients seem to profit more from the procedure than younger ones. Discussion: The survey clearly shows, that surgery on the nasal septum with turbinoplasty has a positive effect on the nasal aeration and the general condition. Therefore its performance is well justified when after careful verification of the pre-conditions the indication for Surgery is given.