Nasal septal cyst: a rare phenomenon.
BACKGROUND
Well-recognized complications of nasal septal surgery i.e. septoplasty or submucous resection (SMR), include septal haematoma, infection, septal perforation and external nasal deformity. Nasal septal cysts are extremely rare in rhinology.


OBJECTIVE
To discuss the underlying aetiological theories, management and strategies for prevention of this very rare complication of a commonly performed rhinological procedure such as SMR.


METHODS
We describe a case of a nasal septal cyst several years after an SMR had been performed, which was excised using an open rhinoplasty approach that has not previously been described for this purpose.


CONCLUSIONS
Entrapment of free nasal mucosal remnants or inward folding of incised septal mucosa in the submucosal space is postulated as the cause of this phenomenon, leading to the development of this type of "inclusion" cyst. Postoperative nasal packing, especially if traumatic, may exacerbate this. We recommend that anterior nasal packing should be used only if necessary, and packs inserted with care, possibly under endoscopic guidance.
Leong
A C
AC
Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, Kent TN24 0LZ, United Kingdom. ackleong@gmail.com
Sharp
H R
HR
D000328:Adult; D003560:Cysts / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006261:Headache / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009300:Nasal Septum / Q000601:surgery*; D009668:Nose Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D012225:Rhinoplasty