:INTRODUCTION

Septoplasty and/or submucosal resection is a common operation performed

in otorhinolaryngology. These operations can both be carried out alone or in
combination with inferior turbinoplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery and
rhinoplasty. (E.Aksoy et al., 2011).
Intranasal splint has been widely used by rhinologist to avoid postoperative
complications. Salinger and Cohen were the first to use intranasal splints for
surgery of a difficult septum in 1955. (V. Sarin et al., 2013).
Complications after septoplasty include excessive bleeding; wound
infection; septal abscess; septal perforation; saddle nose deformity; nasal tip
depression; sensory changes, such as anosmia or dental anesthesia; cerebrospinal
fluid rhinorrhea; extra ocular muscle damage,Severe complications such as toxic
shock syndrome,endocarditis, osteomyelitis, meningitis and cavernous sinus
thrombosis.Some of these complications are rare but life threatening.( F.Jalil
Khayat et al.,2012)
Intranasal splints have been used as effective tools for septal support,
avoiding adhesion, and mucosal healing after septal surgery. (Jung et
al.,2011).
There are reviews reporting that intranasal synechiae are decreased after
the use of intranasal splints. (FatihOzdogan et al., 2016).
Various non-custom made splinting materials are reported in literature
like silicon rubber splints, x-ray film splints, teflon and polythene splints. Even
splints were made from empty IV fluid bottles and plastic milk bottles. (Naik et
al., 2014).
Recently, silicone splints have become more preferable in septum surgery
compared to the other materials. Silicone splints have the advantage of being
safely and comfortably retained intranasally longer than other materials. This
interval can be lengthened up to 10 days in some cases. (A. Karatas et al.,
2016).
The possibility of leaving the splints intranasally for extended periods
helps stabilize the septum in the midline. However, there is nothing in the
literature about how long these splints can be retained inside the nasal cavity
without increasing the risk of infection, postoperative complications, and patient
discomfort. (A. Karatas et al., 2016).
The timing of Intranasal splints removal after surgery is controversial.
Intranasal splints are uncomfortable for patients and may also cause pain and
bleeding while removing. (E.Aksoy et al., 2011).