Abstract

The relation between deviated nasal septum and allergic rhinitis symptoms is not clear. Several studies tackled this point but still debatable. In our region no study evaluated the impact of septoplasty on these symptoms. Herein, we conducted this study to evaluate the relation between septoplasty and allergic rhinitis subjectively. Method: A crosssectional study. We reviewed the records of patients who underwent septoplasty in our tertiary health care center, evaluated their preoperative symptoms and the indications of surgery. Then, we asked them about these symptoms’ changes after surgery. Results: Out of 342 patients, 230 met our criteria and respond to us, 74.3% males, and 24.7% females. The majority are operated for nasal obstruction mainly (80.4%), and other nasal allergic symptoms were present in almost half of the cases (49.1%). In the follow up query, 83% of the cases reported improvement in nasal obstruction. Among those with preoperative symptoms, rhinorrhea, sneezing and itchiness, 64.6% reported an improvement in these symptoms, 33.6% have no change, and 1.8% have worsening of their symptoms. 10.4% cases noticed a new onset of nasal allergic symptoms started after the septoplasty procedure. Conclusion: Septoplasty alone seems to be a good choice in the management for allergic rhinitis patients if they have deviated septum. Though there is possible risk of developing a new onset of allergic symptoms, this occurs subjectively in minority of cases. Further prospective studies are recommended.

Keywords: Septoplasty; Allergic rhinitis; Outcome