Experiences with a new surgical technique for closure of large perforations of the nasal septum in 55 patients.

BACKGROUND: The surgical closure of nasal septal perforation is still an unsolved clinical problem. In this study the experiences with a novel surgical technique for closure of large perforations of the nasal septum are presented.

METHODS: A total of 55 patients with symptomatic nasal septal perforation measuring 23 ± 3 mm (range, 11-38 mm) at the widest point were enrolled in the study. The closure of the nasal septal perforation was performed with a new and simple surgical technique using a nasal mucosal flap consisting of the defect-corresponding mucosa of the floor of the nose, inferior nasal meatus, and inferior turbinate.

RESULTS: A symptomatic improvement of nasal symptoms was noted in all treated patients. In only 3 of 55 cases was the perforation closing incomplete.

CONCLUSION: Our experience with this flap shows its reliability and safety in repairing large nasal septal perforations, with many advantages compared with other techniques for septal perforation repair.