The absorbable nasal pack.

Abstract

Fifty-six patients undergoing different types of nasal surgery were packed at the end of their procedures with an absorbable type of packing (oxicel, surgicel) only. Details of the packing technique in vertical layers are presented. Patients were followed up closely for a variable length of time. This new technique of only using absorbable packing material has proven to be extremely comfortable for the patients and a most efficient hemostatic agent (not a single case of post-op bleeding, even with turbinectomy procedures). Contrary to the case with the classical vaseline pack, the patients were not miserable from the pressure of the pack and were not apprehensive waiting for its removal. The absorbable pack also saves for the surgeon the time and effort spent in the unpleasant job of taking out a nasal pack.