Inferior Turbinate Dislocation after Nasal Surgery

• Published in: Saudi Journal of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery 2024-10, Vol.26 (4), p.244-246
• Main Authors: Alsliham, Rahaf, Alotaibi, Ghadah, Alrayes, Nuha, Alhumaizi, Abdulrahman
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1319-8491; 1319-8491
• DOI: 10.4103/sjoh.sjoh_42_24

Nasal turbinates regulate the flow of air, but they can sometimes cause obstruction, necessitating surgical intervention. Complications such as bleeding, crustation, and scarring can occur postoperatively, and in rare instances, dislocation of inferior turbinates may occur. A 22-year-old female presented with persistent unilateral nasal obstruction following a nasal surgery. Nasal endoscopy and computed tomography revealed a nasopharyngeal mass attached to the right inferior turbinate, which was identified as a dislocated inferior turbinate due to incomplete separation during the previous surgery. Surgical excision of the dislocated inferior turbinate resolved the patient’s symptoms. Nasal obstruction can be caused by various etiologies, warranting surgical intervention. Different surgical techniques are available. Rare complications such as turbinate dislocation underscore the need for early recognition and intervention. Turbinate dislocation, although rare, should be considered a postoperative complication. Early detection leads to improved patient outcomes. Follow-up is essential for the effective management of postoperative complications.