Nasal obstruction due to septal deviation is a common
problem. In addition to the functional problem it may cause
an aesthetic deformity. Several septal correction techniques
have been evolved over the years either through open or the
endoscopic approaches. Beside the classic Insitu septal correction
techniques; extracorporeal septoplasty represents an
effective tool in the management of severely deviated septum.
The internal nasal valves are the narrowest part of the upper
airway system. Their reconstruction is very essential step for
a successful functional outcome. In the current study, the
authors compared between two groups of patients. The first
group was the extracorporeal septoplasty and the second group < br />was the Insitu septoplasty. In both groups; they used spreader
grafts for the internal valve reconstruction. The procedure
then was conducted with the same essential steps of rhinoplasty
according to each case individually. A validated subjective
score for functional assessment of the improvement (NOSE)
was used. NOSE score was used for subjective assessment of
the results before and 6 months after the procedure. Statistically,
results were nearly the same between the two groups after 6
months. The authors concluded that both techniques were
effective in the management of moderate to severe septal
deviation provided that the internal valve was constructed
with spreader grafts.