Management of naso-septal deformity in childhood: Long-term results

Objective: The classical teaching advocates a conservative approach for children presenting with various naso-septal deformities. It may not be appropriate especially when it causes nasal obstruction to the growing child. This study has two main purposes: to contribute in identifying the correct selection criteria for surgical management of pediatric patients and in selecting the most appropriate surgical technique. Material and method: We reviewed a series of 46 cases of post-traumatic septal and naso-septal deformity not managed promptly or with recurrence of nasal deviation, following bones fracture correction alone. The mean follow-up was 10 years. Results: Patients with naso-septal deformity managed only by septoplasty had accentuation of nasal pyramid deformity; those treated by septorhinoplasty showed a good aesthetic and functional result after long-term follow-up. Conclusion: Our series results demonstrated that the best results were obtained when we correct all evident alterations of nasal septum and pyramid at a single stage. Unsuccessful results seen in our first group Suggest that immediate correction of septum alone with delayed management of nasal pyramid deformity leads to a poorer outcome. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.