Epistaxis

Question 1

What is epistaxis?

Answer 1

Nosebleed

Question 2

Tell me a little bit about epistaxis.

Answer 2

Common
Bimodal distribution - young and old
Massive spectrum from self-limiting to life threatening

Risks - trauma, tumours, EToH, coagulation defects, vascular abnormalities, mucosal drying, infection, granulomas, NSAIDS

Question 3

What is the steps in controlling epistaxis?

Answer 3

1. hold bridge of nose
2. Cautery (silver nitrate or electro)
3. Nasal tampons
4. Posterior packing
5. Surgical intervention - Ligation of branches:
   - SPA ligation
   - Maxillary ligation
   - External carotid ligation
   - Radiological embolism

Question 4

What is cauterisation in terms of epistaxis?

Answer 4

Cauterisation of the inside of the nose to stop the bleeding

Uses silver nitrate (chemical) or electro

Question 5

Explain how to use a nasal tampon in treatment of epistaxis.

Answer 5

A tampon to insert into the nasal cavity to stop bleeding

They’re inserted by lifting the nose and pushing them straight into the nasal cavity

Question 6

What is posterior packing in terms of epistaxis?

Answer 6

Inserting a catheter into the nose and blowing up the balloon at the end to block the nasal cavity from the pharynx, and also packing the entire nasal cavity to stop the bleeding