A Clinical Evaluation of Bioresorbable Staples for Mucoperichondrial Flap Coaptation in Septoplasty

BACKGROUND: During septoplasty surgery, the formation of dead space between the mucosal flaps must be minimized to prevent septal hematoma and promote healing. Historically, this has been achieved by using techniques such as nasal packing or the continuous septal quilting or whip suturing. This study presents the first clinical results using a septal stapling device that uses bioresorbable staples to achieve mucoperichondrial flap coaptation during septoplasty. METHODS: The septal stapler was used in 24 subjects. The primary outcome measure was whether septal coaptation was accomplished 1 week postoperatively. The extent of tissue reaction at the site of staple placement was also evaluated. RESULTS: In all subjects, coaptation with septal staples was successfully accomplished with no septal hematoma formation. At 1 week follow-up, there was either no (79%) or minimal (21%) tissue reaction at the site of staple placement. CONCLUSION: The use of bioresorbable staples appears to be a safe, efficient, and effective alternative to other methods used for mucoperichondrial flap coaptation in septoplasty surgery.