Septal Haematoma Flashcards
What occurs in a septal haematoma?
The development of a haematoma between the septal cartilage and the overlying perichondrium
What usually causes a septal haematoma?
Trauma to the nose leading to buckling of the septum and shearing of blood vessels
What can occur if not not treated?
Avascular necrosis of cartilaginous septum
= saddle nose deformity
Why can a saddle nose deformity occur?
Avascular necrosis of the septum destroys the shape of the cartilage
Does the trauma have to be severe?
No, may be precipitated by relatively minor trauma
What symptoms can occur?
Sensation of nasal obstruction
Pain
Rhinorrhoea
What signs are seen on examination?
Bilateral, red swelling arising from the nasal septum
Can differentiate from deviated septum by probing the swelling - septal haematoma will be boggy, septum is firm
How is it managed?
Aspirated and tamponade
IV antibiotics
How quickly can necrosis occur if left untreated?
3-4 days
