Rhinoplasty: Q&A
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Is It Possible For an Xray of Nose to Show Prior Trauma?
Hi there, I was curious to know if it is possible for me to get an xray taken of my nose and if a doctor is able to see from the results if my nose had been broken in the past (6-8years ago). I know that during my early teen years my nose was hurt multiple times but I feel that as I am a male I can only justify getting my dorsal hump straightened out if it can be proved that my surgery is more "corrective" than improving something that was more likely hereditary. Thanks very much!
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6 Doctor Answers |
Asked by
JasonP1
in Florida
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Does XRAY show nasal trauma?
Yes an Xray of the nose will show nasal fractures but will not show evidence of cartilage tears or fractures and since cartilage makes up at least 50% of the nasal structure...an Xray doesn't reveal all nasal trauma.
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CT scan would be more sensitive in finding old fractures
It may be, but a CT scan would be more sensitive in finding old fractures so i suggest that. Good luck!
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Trauma
Nasal bone x-ray are difficult to interpret because the nasal bones are so small and have natural surture lines tha can mimic fracture lines. However, if the nose is twisted or has a step off fracture, that can be documented
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X rays in nose trauma
Plain x-rays of the nose are very unreliable in documenting old trauma. CT scans are sometimes better but in general the history of trauma and the physical exam is the most reliable. Your question implies that you are trying to get some documentation for your insurance to pay for your rhinoplasty. In Florida insurance companies take the position that surgery to correct an external deformity even if due to trauma is not covered unless there is a medical need to correct it (breathing...
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Value of Nasal X-rays
If you break the bones of your nose they typically heal by what is called fibrous union. Fibrous unions will be visible on an x-ray, typically for the rest of your life. This is different from other bones which heal across a fracture with bone and eventually become impossible or nearly impossible to detect.
The value of this information is dubious however. A nose that has had a previous fracture needs no treatment if it looks good and breathes well. A nose that...
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Determining trauma to the nose
Trauma to the nose can usually be determined through an exam and /or x-rays. It is difficult to always pinpoint when the trauma occurred it could be from birth through childhood. When examining the nose via sight it is easy to see whether or not there is a deviation of the septum. Typically with most deviations you will have a degree of breathing difficulty. A rhinoplasty which is considered a cosmetic procedure is different then a septorhinoplasty where you are also fixing the function of...
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