Comparison of visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score in evaluation of post septoplasty patients

OBJECTIVE: To compare and correlate the efficacy of the NOSE score & the VAS score in determining the symptomatic benefit in patients undergoing septoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty patients with deviated nasal septum undergoing septoplasty were included in the study. NOSE score & VAS score (out of 100) was documented before and after surgery. Results were correlated and compared statistically. RESULTS: In the NOSE score, the most bothersome symptom was trouble breathing through the nose (85.83); followed by Nasal obstruction or blockage (82.50). Wilcoxon test showed significant improvement with NOSE score and VAS score in all patients at 1 month and 3 months. Spearman's coefficient showed a positive correlation between the two, though the score improvement and patient satisfaction rate was significantly high with NOSE score. CONCLUSIONS: NOSE score and the VAS score both provide effective framework for evaluating treatment responses after septoplasty. However, the NOSE score showed higher improvement and better patient satisfaction rate when used to measure of nasal obstruction as compared to the VAS score.