Why does cocaine use after repairing a septal perforation guaranteed to cause another perforation?

April 1, 2018
Asked By:angiewoo in California, CA

I understand that all three layers of the perforation need to be repaired. However, the perforation is a result of chronic use of cocaine that causes damage to the septum over time. If one gets surgery to repair the hole, but does not use cocaine in large amounts after, why would an occasional (once every 6 months, after everything has healed of course) guarantee another perforation? Especially if after surgery any cocaine use is followed by saline spray to rinse the irritants out of the nose.

Answers (5)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
April 2, 2018

Answer: Cocaine use.

April 2, 2018

Answer: Cocaine use.

April 3, 2018

Answer: Cocaine affects on the nose

April 3, 2018

Answer: Cocaine affects on the nose

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