Nasal septal haematoma Flashcards
1
Q
What is it?
A
an important complication of nasal trauma that should always be looked for
It describes the development of a haematoma between the septal cartilage and the overlying perichondrium.
2
Q
features
A
may be precipitated by relatively minor trauma
the sensation of nasal obstruction is the most common symptom
pain and rhinorrhoea are also seen
on examination, classically a bilateral, red swelling arising from the nasal septum
this may be differentiated from a deviated septum by gently probing the swelling.
Nasal septal haematomas are typically boggy whereas septums will be firm
3
Q
mx
A
surgical drainage
intravenous antibiotics
4
Q
what can happen if left untreated?
A
irreversible septal necrosis may develop within 3-4 days.
may result in a ‘saddle-nose’ deformity
