Septoplasty, unlike adults, is a rarely performed surgery in children. The reason why surgeons want to avoid operating on an emerging structure is an important reason.

The surgeon to perform septoplasty in children should have a grasp of the anatomical development of the nasal structures. As of age two, the front cartilage is close to the adult size and constitutes the large part of the septum. The bone that continues to develop hereinafter is septum. In adolescence, girls have rapid nasal growth at the age of 8-12 and boys at the age of 13. The development of the nose is completed at the age of approximately 16 in girls and 18 in boys.

There may be different causes of septum deviation in children. Traumas that may occur during compression or normal delivery in the mother's womb may lead to septal deviation by pushing the cartilage during rapid growth in early childhood and adolescence. The increase in the rate of deviation detection as age increases is also associated with the increased risk of nasal trauma. There is no relationship between gender and septum deviation. Apart from nasal traumas, blood accumulation in the septum and abscesses, masses, and rarely past septum surgeries can lead to deviation in children.

Nasal congestion is a common complaint in children. It is also known that nasal congestion causes many problems from facial and orthodontic disorders to sleep apnea. A detailed physical examination including endoscopic evaluation should be performed to determine that septum deviation is the cause of nasal congestion. Computed tomography can be performed if it is not certain by physical examination.

The age of performing septoplasty should be expected to be 5-6 years. However, if necessary, it can be intervened at an earlier age. The relatively smaller nostrils in children will initially force the surgeon. However, difficulties can be overcome with experience and anatomical knowledge. As a general principle, the best methods of protecting the tissue should be chosen as much as possible, and unnecessary large tissue extractions should be avoided.

Studies have indicated that septoplasty performed in childhood improves nasal congestion complaints. The degree of functional improvement provided after septoplasty in children is stronger than the risks of side effects. With a good preoperative evaluation, it is important to make a correct diagnosis, to master anatomical development points, and to perform the least possible and appropriate intervention.

Note: The above information was compiled from the book "Current Nose and Sinus Surgery", of which editorship was conducted by Prof. Dr. Selim Sermed Erbek. It is for purpose of informing the patients and patients should consult an Otorhinolaryngologist for diagnosis and treatment details.