Septal perforations closure utilizing the backwards extraction-reposition technique of the quadrangular cartilage

Abstract

Nasal septal perforations are anatomical defects of the nasal septum, causing dynamic alterations in nasal physiology which may lead to variable symptoms and otolaryngological referral. Repair of nasal septal perforations continues to remain a difficult surgical problem, and nowadays there is no definitive solution for their successful surgical closure. Thirty patients with small- or medium-sized anterior nasal septal perforations were treated with a simple technique of backwards extraction-reposition of the quadrangular cartilage. Prior nasal septal surgery and repeated cautery were the most common cause of perforation. After a minimum follow-up of two years the success rate for relief of symptoms and closure of the perforation was 87 per cent. This technique showed very good results in small-sized and selected cases with medium-sized perforations, but the mucosal dissection employed is not suitable for medium to large perforations.