Nasal Adhesions - Intranasal Synechiae

Learn about one of the most common complications of nasal surgery and how it can be treated using endoscopic techniques.

WHAT ARE NASAL ADHESIONS? WHY DO THEY DEVELOP?

     The most common complication of nasal surgery involving the nasal septum or turbinates is the formation of adhesions inside the nose, which may develop during the first few days after surgery.
Essentially, these are bands of connective or scar tissue that form as a reaction of the body to the surgical procedure.
This new tissue acts like a bridge connecting the two opposing surfaces inside the nostril, effectively causing the nasal septum and turbinate to become "stuck" together.

     As a result of this connection, the nasal airway in the affected nostril becomes narrowed or blocked, causing significant difficulty breathing on that side.
Therefore, even if the surgery on the nasal septum and turbinates has been successful, the patient may still be very dissatisfied with their breathing through the affected nostril.


HOW CAN NASAL ADHESIONS BE TREATED USING MODERN AND EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES?

     The most modern approach to treating these intranasal adhesions is to divide them under endoscopic guidance.
This technique allows precise surgical movements, helps avoid injury to the surrounding tissues and aims to achieve a lasting result.

     Specifically, with the patient under sedation, the tissue forming the bridge or adhesion is divided endoscopically, usually with the help of an ultrasonic scalpel, which separates the tissues that have become attached to each other.
Next, to help prevent recurrence and achieve a more lasting result, a silicone sheet is placed between the separated tissues. It is removed after approximately 10-15 days.