Overview
Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a condition characterized by paradoxical nasal obstruction and perceived nasal emptiness following surgical overresection of nasal structures, leading to symptoms such as dryness, crusting, and difficulty breathing 1.Diagnosis
Symptoms include persistent nasal dryness, crusting, and a sensation of nasal emptiness 1.
Diagnosis often relies on clinical history and exclusion of other causes of nasal obstruction 1.
No specific diagnostic tests are universally recommended; imaging and endoscopy may help rule out other pathologies 1.Management
Conservative management includes humidification, saline irrigation, and topical lubricants 1.
Surgical interventions may involve revision surgery to restore nasal architecture and improve airflow 1.
No specific drug classes or doses are highlighted in the provided abstracts 1.Special Populations
No specific management guidelines for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities are provided in the given abstracts 1.Key Recommendations
Evaluate patients with symptoms suggestive of ENS through thorough clinical assessment and exclusion of other nasal pathologies (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
Implement conservative measures such as humidification and saline irrigation as initial treatment strategies (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
Consider surgical revision for patients with persistent symptoms unresponsive to conservative management (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).References
1 Clair B, Goyal P. What does Medicare pay rhinologists? An analysis of Medicare payment data. International forum of allergy & rhinology 2015. link
2 Ozkuş I, Cek DI, Ozkuş K. The use of bifid nasolabial flaps in the reconstruction of the nose and columella. Annals of plastic surgery 1992. link
3 Kotler R. The midline forehead flap for resurfacing the nose. The Journal of dermatologic surgery and oncology 1981. link