NASAL SEPTOPLASTY FOR CORRECTION OF SEPTAL DEVIATION IN A FOAL

Objective-This article reports an alternative to septal resection in n asal septal deviations involving the rostral 7 to 10 cm of the nasal s eptum. Study Design-Case report. Sample Population-One client-owned fo al. Methods-A nasal approach with mucosal elevation was used to gain a ccess to the cartilaginous portion of the nasal septum. Once exposed, a series of parasagittal incisions in the cartilage allowed the septum to be repositioned while providing some intrinsic stabilization. Resu lts-The nasal approach provided good access to the rostral 7 cm of the nasal septum. The technique resulted in minimal hemorrhage from the s ite. Bleeding was reduced with the use of ephedrine to vasoconstrict t he mucosal vessels, and primary closure of the mucosa. Conclusions-Use of an intrinsically stabilized septoplasty should be considered as a means of decreasing the airway obstruction caused by nasal septal devi ation in foals while allowing for normal development of facial contour . (C) Copyright 1997 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.