Changes in Subjective Outcomes during the Early Period after Septoturbinoplasty

PURPOSE: Septoturbinoplasty is frequently performed to correct nasal obstruction; however, there is still a lack of research on changes in nasal and nose-related symptoms early after septoturbinoplasty. Therefore, we aimed to investigate changes in subjective outcomes within 6 months after septoturbinoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical records of patients who underwent septoturbinoplasty at Gangnam Severance Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Symptom scores were evaluated using the Sino-nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and obstruction scores. The SNOT-22 and obstruction scores were investigated before surgery and at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. RESULTS: We noted significant decreases in both SNOT-22 and obstruction scores at 1 month after surgery, compared to those before surgery (p<0.001). However, there were no significant changes at 3 and 6 months after surgery, compared to scores at 1 month after surgery. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, a larger difference between SNOT-22 scores preoperatively and 1 month after surgery was significantly associated with a significant improvement in symptoms at 3 or 6 months after septoturbinoplasty (p=0.029). CONCLUSION: These results imply that subjective outcomes and degree of improvement in the first month after septoturbinoplasty can be used as a predictor of the results thereof and for counseling patients about its progress.