Nasal septal perforation repair: predictive factors and systematic review of the literature

Purpose of review Although numerous surgical techniques have been introduced thus far in order to achieve the surgical closure of nasal septal perforation, the repair of nasal septal perforation is still challenging for surgeons and operative techniques are not standardized. Furthermore, predictive factors for successful closure have not been elucidated. This review aimed to investigate predictive factors for complete closure of nasal septal perforation. Recent findings The size of perforation was the most significant factor for complete closure. Surgical failure occurred more frequently in patients with large perforation (>2 cm) than those with small-to-moderate perforation (<= 2 cm). The bilateral coverage over the perforation with vascularized mucosal flap also helped complete closure. Interposition of grafts appeared to assist complete closure, although it was statistically insignificant. Summary This review provides information for surgeons on how to predict surgical outcomes of the repair of nasal septal perforation and which surgical techniques to choose in order to obtain better results.