Assessing Patient Reported Outcomes after Septorhinoplasty with and without Nasal Packing Using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory

Abstract

 Introduction: Patient-reported outcomes are an invaluable tool to guide clinical decision-making. Nasal packing is a traumatic, painful event for patients, which could negatively impact patient-reported outcomes. We aimed to evaluate if avoiding postoperative nasal packing in septorhinoplasty and rhinoplasty affects patient-reported outcomes. Methods: All septorhinoplasty and rhinoplastyoperations performed over 5 years were identified. The case notes were reviewed to obtain patient demographics, operative details and any post-operative complications. The Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) was administered via telephone to measure patient-reported outcomes. Results: 167 patients were identified. In 11 the case notes were unavailable. Of the 156 patients remaining, 126 completed the GBI questionnaire (who had undergone 132 operations). No significant difference in GBI scores was found with or without the use of nasal packing. Conclusion: This study suggests that routine nasal packing can be avoided in the majority of patients, but can be used with confidence that patient-reported outcome is not being compromised.