Effect of Septoplasty on Middle Ear Pressure in Patients with Nasal Septal Deviation

Abstract

Background: Nasal septum deviation (NSD) is a widespread issue that may influence the Eustachian tube (ET), affecting middle ear  pressure. While septoplasty is commonly performed to correct NSD and potentially alleviate related symptoms, its effect on ET function  and middle ear pressure has been variably reported.

Objective: To examine the outcomes of septoplasty on the functionality of the  Eustachian tube and the pressure levels in the middle ear among patients suffering from nasal blockage attributed to NSD.

Patients and  Methods: This consecutive case series study was conducted on 50 patients over 18 years with symptomatic NSD and intact tympanic  membranes. Assessments included tympanometry and nose score questionnaires preoperatively and eight weeks postoperatively.  

Results: The study population had a mean age of 32.64 ± 8.93 years, with a slight male predominance (56%). Postoperative assessments  showed significant improvement in nose scores (from 17.34 ± 8.05 pre-surgery to 9.6 ± 5.22 post-surgery, P < 0.001) and tympanometric  measurements in both ears (P = 0.023 for the right ear, P = 0.011 for the left ear), indicating enhanced ET function and middle ear  pressure regulation.

Conclusions: Nose score can be used as subjective tool for assessment of pre and postoperative nasal symptoms in addition to existing methods. Septoplasty in patients with septal deviation with concomitant middle ear dysfunction, might omit the need  for Eustachian tube or middle ear surgery.