Comparative Study Between Crushing Technique and Lateral Laminectomy of Middle Turbinate as Auxiliary Management in Patients Who Underwent Septoplasty with Concha Bullosa

The aim is to compare two commonly performed surgical techniques, lateral resection and crushing for Concha Bullosa (CB) as auxiliary management in patients who underwent septoplasty. In Patients diagnosed with DNS and CB, using endoscopy and Computerized Tomography, NOSE score was calculated. All patients underwent septoplasty and depending upon the surgical method followed for CB, patients allotted in two groups. In group A, crushing of middle turbinate was performed using Blakesley forceps and in group B, lateral resection of CB was done. Postoperative NOSE scores were calculated at 6 months and outcomes were compared. Both the surgical methods were highly effective in the management of CB. All patients had significant improvement in the NOSE score when compared with the preoperative values. Two patients in group B developed synechia between the turbinate and lateral wall. However, the superiority of  one method over the other could not be established statistically. CB is a common anomaly in anatomy of nose and paranasal sinus. It frequently coexists with DNS and may cause sinus problems if it is over-pneumatised. In such cases, surgical correction is warranted. Crushing of MT and lateral resection are two commonly performed methods, both are equally effective, but the crushing technique has an advantage of mucosal preservation and less postoperative complications.

Current Application and Future Prospects of 3D Printing in Otorhinolaryngology-A Narrative Review

Application of three-dimensional printing (3D) technology is relatively new in healthcare, but significant progress has been made over the last few decades. The technology has been evolved and became more accessible and affordable for the medical use. The aim of the review article is to discuss the potential use  of 3D printing in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery. In the article, use of this novel technology is discussed across various subspecialties in terms of skill training, surgical planning and development of customised prosthesis. Internet searching was also performed for the commercial utility of 3D printed devices in ENT patient care. 3D printing is a promising technology. Numerous articles have been published in the international literature on its potential use in healthcare and progress is being made regularly by researchers to expand its implications in ENT. However, shortage of suitable 3D material which simulate human tissues for developing better training models discloses area of further research. Integration of tissue engineering 3D bioprinting provides significant opportunity to develop functional 3D printed implant for postsurgical reconstruction and organ transplantation.