Endoscopic repair of septal perforations using unilateral pediculed flap from the anterior ethmoidal artery

Abstract

Introduction: Nasal septum perforations are anatomical alterations that can significantly affect the physiology and function of the nasal cavities. Using a pedicled flap from the anterior ethmoidal artery is one of the techniques that can be used for endoscopic repair of symptomatic septal perforations. Objective: To describe the surgical technique used systematically by our department and to evaluate the results of endoscopic repair of septal perforations utilizing a pedicled flap from the anterior ethmoidal artery. Materials and Methods: The results of a series of 18 cases of repair of septal perforations smaller than 2.5 cm, using a pedicled flap from branches of the anterior ethmoidal artery, performed between January 2017 and May 2021, were retrospectively evaluated. Results: Eighteen cases were included in the study. All perforations were less than 2.5 cm in diameter; 77.7% of the cases corresponded to iatrogenic perforations; 88.8% were resolved entirely with significant improvement in symptoms. There were no severe complications in any of the patients who underwent surgery. Conclusion: Closing nasal septal perforations with a pedicled flap from branches of the anterior ethmoidal artery offers a high percentage of complete surgical closure of the perforation, with significant improvement in symptoms and low risk of complications.