Packing in endonasal surgery

Nasal packing is used to control bleeding in epistaxis and after endonasal surgery, for internal stabilization, and to prevent synechiae or restenosis , particularly after surgery. Generally accepted standards regarding the ma terials that should be used for packing, how long the packing should be lef t in place, or the indications for nasal packing are lacking. In view of th e present lack of standardization and the many different packing materials used, we review the currently available materials and outline their respect ive properties, indications, and risks.