Endoscopic septoplasty: Indications, technique, and results

Endoscopic septoplasty is an attractive alternative to traditional "headlig ht" approaches to septoplasty. The primary advantage of the technique is th e ability to reduce morbidity and postoperative swelling in isolated septal deviations by limiting the dissection to the area of the deviation. This a bility to markedly reduce the extent of subperichondrial dissection is part icularly valuable in patients who have undergone prior septal cartilage res ection, Other advantages include improved visualization, particularly in po sterior septal deformities; improved surgical transition between septoplast y and sinus surgery; and its use as an effective teaching tool. We present our experience with endoscopic septoplasty in a series of ill patients. Sur gical indications, technique, and complications are discussed.