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Septoplasty
Description

The goal of septoplasty to straighten out the nasal septum or to relieve blockages or other structural problems.

A cut is made inside the wall of one side of the nose. The mucus membrane is lifted up and away, and anything that is blocking the area is removed or moved as needed. Then, the mucus membrane is put back in its original position. The tissues covering the wall are held in place by either stitches or packing.

Review date: January 30, 2008
Reviewed by: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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