Types of Nasal Splints and Their Applications

Nasal splints have become fundamental to rhinoplasty and nasal injury treatments. They are fabricated to support nose structure and promote proper healing after nasal surgeries.

Nasal splints come in various types and shapes, each designed for specific needs and procedures. They are generally made from materials like silicone and thermoplastics and are widely used during nose surgeries such as rhinoplasty and septoplasty to protect and stabilize nose.

There has been an uptick in rhinoplasty surgeries globally during the last few years. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), about 1.1 million rhinoplasty procedures were performed in 2023, depicting an increase of 21.6%. This, in turn, has created significant demand for nasal splints.

What Are Nasal Splints?

Nasal splints are devices used to protect and stabilize nose structures following an injury or a nose job. They have the tendency to prevent unwanted movement, reduce swelling, minimize scar tissue formation, and protect delicate nasal septum and bones.

How Nasal Splints Work?

Nasal splints work by providing support and stabilization to nasal structures after an injury or surgery. They have become critical in post-surgical recovery and nasal injury treatment.

The size and shape of the nose, nostrils, or septum often change after a nasal surgery. This is where nasal splints step in. They help maintain the new shape and size until fragile tissue heals.  These devices

• Prevent nasal tissues from shifting during healing
• Reduce swelling and inflammation
• Protect nose from accidental bumps or pressure
• Support tissue regeneration by keeping nose structures aligned

Types of Nasal Splints

• External Nasal Splints

External nasal splints are applied to the outside of the nose using tape, bandages, or adhesive. They provide support and protection after nasal surgeries or trauma. These nasal splint types reduce swelling, maintain nasal structures, and assist in healing.

External splints are often made from thermoplastics and metals. As a result, they are subdivided into thermoplastic nasal splints, aluminum nasal splints, and other types.

• Applications of External Nasal Splints

• • Provide protection for the nose following rhinoplasty procedures.
  • Help stabilize nasal bones.
  • Are gaining traction in nasal fracture management due to their ability to support healing bones and prevent distortion.
  • Minimize post-operative swelling.

• Internal Nasal Splints

Internal nasal splints are placed inside nostrils to support the septum and internal structures after surgeries like rhinoplasty and septoplasty. They are secured with a few stitches.

These splints have the tendency to provide support to the internal nose structure, thereby preventing collapse and airway obstruction. They also help reduce bleeding and swelling by stabilizing nasal tissues.

Medical-grade nose splints are usually produced from silicone, soft plastic, and other materials. They are further classified into

• • Non-absorbable Splints: They are designed to be removed after a few days or weeks. These splints are produced from materials like soft plastic and silicone. Silicone nasal splints and aluminum nasal splints are few examples.
  • Absorbable Splints: These splints are made from biodegradable materials like bioresorable polymers. They dissolve over time and do not require manual removal.

• Applications of Internal Nasal Splints

• • Stabilize the septum during procedures like septoplasty as well as prevent collapse.
  • Maintain proper airway alignment.
  • Reduce postoperative bleeding and minimize the risk of adhesions.
  • Prevent internal collapse in internal nasal trauma.

Nasal splints play a crucial role in post-surgical recovery and nasal injury treatment. They provide structural support, minimize complications, and ensure proper healing. Understanding the different types of nasal splints—external and internal—allows for better selection based on specific medical needs. External splints offer protection and stabilization after trauma or surgery, while internal splints support internal structures, prevent airway obstruction, and reduce swelling.

Healthcare professionals can make informed decisions that enhance patient recovery and surgical outcomes by recognizing the distinct applications of each type. As nasal procedures continue to evolve, the proper use of these splints remains fundamental to achieving successful treatment results. Companies are focusing on using more advanced , biocompatible materials in their products to enhance product effectiveness and attract more customers.

Sources:

International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)

International Journal of Orthopaedics Sciences

National Library of Medicine