Is it common to administer Afrin nasal spray, 1 spray/nostril every 5 minutes for 1 hour before rolling into or for septoplasty?

Question

I would like a second opinion: I do not have bleeding abnormalities, nor am I on any blood thinners. I just have a deviated septum.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Mandm,In my 35 year experience performing rhinoplasty and septoplasty, I have never either heard of this or seen anything in our journals recommending this practice.  The majority of nasal surgeons with use a vasoconstrictor such as Afrin, Neosynephrine, or even medical Cocaine on cotton pledgets in the operating room for 5-10 minutes once the patient is on the operating table. That said, following the protocol that your surgeon has recommended should not adversely affect you.  Good luck and be well.Dr. P

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Many surgeons use Afrin  to reduce bleeding at the time of surgery. Most wait until you are asleep then pack your nose with it. I’ve never heard of using it before surgery but it accomplishes the same thing. It’s actually a good idea. I may try it sometime.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Yes it is, we've been using Afrin nasal spray in the nose prior to a septoplasty  for over 20 years. It accomplishes shrinking the membranes and help stop bleeding during the surgical procedure itself.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Mandm66, Thank you for your interesting question. I personally have never heard of using Afrin prior to a septoplasty procedure however some surgeons do use it once you are asleep with nasal packing for vasoconstriction. In my practice, after the patient is put to sleep I use topical cocaine on small telfa packs which provides vasoconstriction and topical anesthesia prior to local injection. I do not see any concern or red flags with the surgeon asking you to do this prior to surgery it is just his/her personal protocol which should be followed. Good luck with your procedure and best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Is it common to administer Afrin nasal spray, 1 spray/nostril every 5 minutes for 1 hour before rolling into or for septoplasty?

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