Nasal splints are medical devices used to provide structural support and stabilization to the delicate tissues of the nose following a surgical procedure or a traumatic injury. These supports function much like a cast on a broken limb, immobilizing the nasal structures during the initial phase of healing. Their primary objective is to maintain the corrected position of the bones and cartilage, ensuring the surgical outcome is preserved. They also minimize the buildup of scar tissue and reduce post-operative swelling, both of which can compromise the long-term shape and function of the nose.
Distinguishing Internal and External Splints
Nasal splints are categorized based on their location, with two distinct types serving different recovery needs.
External splints are rigid, cast-like devices applied to the outside of the nose, typically made from materials such as thermoplastic, aluminum, or plaster. These are molded to conform to the nasal bridge and are secured with tape, protecting the underlying bone and cartilage from external trauma. External splints compress the tissue to manage swelling and support the overall outer contour of the nose, ensuring the newly sculpted shape remains stable during the early healing period.
Internal splints, conversely, are placed entirely inside the nasal cavity, resting against the septum and turbinates. These supports are often crafted from flexible, medical-grade silicone or bioabsorbable materials that dissolve over time. Internal splints are secured inside the nostrils and are designed to prevent the nasal lining from adhering to itself. Many internal splints feature a small central airway channel, allowing some air passage even when swelling is present.
Medical Procedures Requiring Nasal Splints
The need for a specific type of nasal splint is determined by the structures manipulated during the medical procedure.
Septoplasty, a surgery performed to straighten a deviated septum, commonly requires the use of internal nasal splints. The splints stabilize the corrected midline position of the septum and apply gentle pressure. This helps prevent a septal hematoma (blood collection between the cartilage and the mucosal lining) and the formation of synechiae (scar tissue adhesions that obstruct airflow).
Rhinoplasty procedures, which involve reshaping the external appearance of the nose, often necessitate an external splint. This support is applied when nasal bones are repositioned, serving to hold the new bony framework in place until stability is achieved. For patients undergoing surgery for a traumatic nasal fracture, both internal and external splints may be used to immobilize the bone fragments and cartilage, ensuring proper alignment during recovery.
Timeline, Care, and Removal Process
The length of time a splint remains in place depends on the type of splint and the extent of the surgical correction. External splints are usually worn for five to fourteen days, providing protection while major swelling subsides and the bone begins to set. Internal silicone splints may be removed in a similar timeframe, though some surgeons may opt to leave them in place for up to two or three weeks to ensure septal stabilization and prevent scar tissue formation.
Post-operative care is important to the success of the healing process and the ease of splint removal. Patients are advised to avoid activities that increase blood pressure, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, which could disturb the splint or cause bleeding. Hygiene often involves the use of saline nasal rinses and sprays to keep the nasal passages moist and help clear away any crusting or dried secretions that accumulate around the splint.
The removal of the splint is a straightforward process performed by the surgeon in the office and is usually rapid. External splints are simply peeled away, while internal splints are removed after cutting the single holding suture. Patients report a sensation of pressure or a strong tugging as the device is withdrawn from the nasal cavity, but this discomfort is momentary and is not typically described as painful.