Dissolvable nasal packing is a modern, bioabsorbable material used after nasal procedures, such as sinus or septal surgery. Placed inside the nasal cavity, it assists the initial healing process. This innovation eliminates the need for a follow-up procedure to manually remove stiff packing, which was often uncomfortable or painful.
What is Dissolvable Nasal Packing and Why is it Used?
Dissolvable nasal packing is composed of bioabsorbable substances designed to safely break down and be absorbed by the body over time. These materials can include oxidized cellulose (Surgicel), gelatin sponges (Gelfoam), or specialized hydrogels and polymers like carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and collagen. The selection of the specific material depends on the surgeon’s preference and the requirements of the surgical site.
The primary function of this packing is to achieve hemostasis, controlling post-operative bleeding by applying gentle pressure to the surgical site. It also provides temporary structural support to the delicate nasal tissues during the first phase of healing. Furthermore, the material acts as a barrier to prevent the formation of adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can form between healing surfaces in the nose. By separating these surfaces, the packing promotes proper tissue alignment and drainage.
The Typical Dissolution Timeline
The timeframe for complete dissolution of nasal packing is variable, generally ranging from a few days up to two weeks. The packing typically starts to break down within the first few days following the procedure. A significant portion of the material often dissolves or is cleared from the nasal passages by the end of the first week.
The speed of dissolution is heavily influenced by the specific product used, as different bioabsorbable materials have distinct structural properties. For example, some gelatin-based sponges may dissolve more rapidly than materials primarily composed of cellulose or collagen. The overall quantity of packing placed in the nose is also a factor, as a larger amount will naturally take longer to fully break down.
The moisture level within the nasal cavity is another significant influence on the dissolution process. Maintaining a moist environment through the frequent use of saline rinses helps facilitate the breakdown and clearance of the material. A dry nasal environment can slow the process down and may lead to increased crusting around the packing. Patients should always follow the specific post-operative timeline provided by their surgeon.
What to Expect During the Dissolution Process
As the dissolvable packing begins to break down, patients commonly notice increased nasal drainage and a temporary sensation of congestion. This drainage may appear thick, gel-like, or mucus-like, often brown or dark in color as it is mixed with old blood. Seeing small, dark, or fragmented pieces of the packing come out of the nose is a normal part of the process.
Crusting around the nostril openings is also expected as the breakdown products exit the nose. To manage these symptoms and encourage efficient dissolution, frequent saline nasal rinses are highly recommended. Saline irrigation helps wash away the dissolving material and keeps the nasal lining moist, reducing the risk of crust formation.
Patients must manage these secretions gently, avoiding forceful blowing of the nose for the first week or two after surgery. If drainage becomes heavy or if a patient experiences a fever or severe, active bleeding, they should contact their doctor immediately.