Very bad throat pain after Rhinoplasty- Help! Advise?

Question

Hi all, I got a rhinoplasty 6 days ago and had a tracheal intubation. I know it is normal to have some throat pain because of this after, however its been 6 days and the pain is still there. It is extremely painful, I haven't been able to eat anything solid, and barely anything liquid, even water and my own saliva burns going down. I use lozenges, a throat spray, salt gargle, antibacterial mouthwash but nothing works!! What is wrong with me! I have no fever, steadying around 35.5C.

George A. Toledo, MD · Answer

Unfortunately this is a common problem and it's due to the back of your throat (pharynx) getting irritated from the endotracheal tube. This could have occurred during the incubation or from the tube rubbing the pharynx during the procedure. The Anesthesiologist needs to be very gentle and careful putting in the tube and then routinely using a throat pack during the surgery to prevent irritation. This pain should dissipate over the next week. Let your surgeon know and have him examine the back of your throat.

Curtis Perry, MD · Answer

This is related to the anesthesia. Definitely discuss this with your surgeon and the anesthesiologist. A course of antibiotics that treat oral cavity microbes may be helpful.

Michael Roskies, MD · Answer

This is likely from the intubation, could be from a traumatic technique, or even from acid reflux as a result of lack of airway protection. 
The best thing for this is to suck on ice. You may want to consider an anti-reflux medication/avoidance of alcohol/certain foods as well in the short term. 
This will resolve! If not, would be a good idea to consult your GP.

Very bad throat pain after Rhinoplasty- Help! Advise?

Answers (3)