Approach to Correction of Septal Perforation.

ABSTRACT

Iatrogenic septal perforation is a complication of nasal surgery. Small or posterior perforations cause few symptoms, and need only conservative treatment. Larger and anterior perforations contribute to nasal airflow disturbances and external nasal deformities. When considering surgical candidacy, one should consider the severity of symptoms, location and size of the perforation, and need for revsional rhinoplasty. We repair perforations using intranasal mucosal advancement flaps augmented by an interposition connective tissue graft. Septal perforation repairs are tedious and technically challenging. We review key points to minimize unintended perforation formation following nasal surgery.