A prospective randomised study to assess the efficacy of differenct medications for relief of post-operative nasal obstruction

Abstract

Surgery to the nasal septum and to the turbinates constitutes a significant part of the workload of an otolaryngologist. The patient invariably experiences short-term nasal obstruction following such surgery and different medications are commonly used to relieve this and to promote a sense of airway patency. However the efficacy of topical and systemic medication, given in the post-operative period is hot well documented. A prospective randomized trial was therefore undertaken to compare the efficacy of a topically applied vasoconstrictor and an anticholinergic agent in reducing the sensation of airway obstruction in the first week following simple nasal airway surgery. 0.5% Ephedrine hydrochloride nasal drops, Pseudoephedrine tablets and a combination of the two were compared to a control group who received no treatment. Eighty patients were randomised into four groups and nasal patency assessed by patients using a visual analogue sacle (VAS). When compared to the control group both medications were effective in relieving nasal congestion but a combination of topical and systemic therapy, given together, was superior to either agent used alone. The results achieved were independent of the seniority of the surgeon undertaking the operation.