Would a nasal valve collapse show on a ct scan?

Question

Hi i have had two rhinoplastys and i injured my nose over Christmas and self manipulation it back. But i fear i have caused a massive valve collapse and some damage across the tip and grafting. Ever since there is a foul smell in the tip area , i can't clear my nose , my eardrums feel retracted My life has gone bad . I had a sinus ct scan recently i just wondered if the nasal valve damage or any damage would show on a sinus scan. I did hear a clicking when i was repeatedly malling my nose.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear shane123Nasal Valve collapse is often a dynamic process and best diagnosed by examination. Although a CT scan can give your surgeon a hint that you might have valve narrowing, you need to be seen in person to have that issue assessed. It does sound like you have rhinosinisitis and you would benefit from medical optimization of your sinuses followed by possible surgery as indicated. Clicking sounds by themselves are not important but after a new fracture in an operated nose often hint at separation of your cartilage from your nasal bone at the keystone area (midnasal vault), specialty if you have had a reduction rhinoplasty (you had a large dorsal hump). One simple trick to assess valve collapse is to place your thumb and index on either side of your nose, just above the ala and press down. Then breath in hard. now let go and breath in hard. If its easier to breath in when you press down, you likely have some degree of valve collapse. Look for an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (or Facial). See more than one consultation so you can make a well informed decision.

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

The nasal valves are cartilaginous and dynamic and will not be denmonstrable on a CT.  Other useful information regarding the airways may be gleaned from the CT however.  The foul smell from the tip may represent a residual suture or a sequestered cartilage graft.  This all needs attention by your surgeon

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH · Answer

Dear Shane Sorry to hear about the trouble you are having. Assuming you were able to see an Otolaryngologist after the Sinus CT, you can go over the Ear popping and sinus drainage symptoms you have been having while having the CT scan as a reference. The valves of the nose are moving when you breath and so the examination is best completed while you are breathing in an inperson examination. the sounds of clicking are actually quite common and may reflect something normal. Best to see a doctor, review your scan and discuss your symptoms. Best Wishes

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. The nasal valves are primarily bordered by cartilage which doesn't really show up on a CT scan. With everything on the outside of the nose, pretty much what you see is what you get. CT scans are important for looking at the internal structure of the nose, particularly the sinuses. It sounds like you're taking the correct steps by visiting with a doctor. The clicking sound probably means you broke something, but you'd need an exam by someone who knew about rhinoplasties to see if anything got messed up with the outside of your nose. These problems can all be helped. Your doc will probably recommend some treatments for allergies. I'd start some saline rinse as well if I were you. Good luck!

Would a nasal valve collapse show on a ct scan?

Answers (4)

Answer: CT Scans and nasal surgery

Answer: CT Scans and nasal surgery

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Would a nasal valve collapse show on a ct scan?

Answers (4)

Answer: CT Scans and nasal surgery

Answer: CT Scans and nasal surgery

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.