Septal Hematoma

Septal hematoma is blood collection between septal cartilage and mucoperichondrium, usually after trauma/surgery, causing bilateral nasal obstruction, pain, and fluctuant swelling. Risk: cartilage necrosis/saddle-nose deformity/abscess. Treatment: urgent incision and drainage/aspiration; anterior nasal packing; systemic antibiotics; close follow-up; monitor for abscess; repair deformity later if cartilage necrosis.

Common Symptoms

Bilateral nasal obstruction; pain; fluctuant septal swelling; post-traumatic/surgical

Causes and Pathogenesis

Trauma/surgery causes bleeding in septal space; pressure compromises cartilage blood supply.

Treatment

Urgent drainage/aspiration; packing; systemic antibiotics; follow-up; prevent cartilage necrosis

Preventive Measures

Prompt evaluation of post-traumatic nasal swelling; avoid trauma.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT-Emergency department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.