There are two main types of nasal fractures. It is crucial to make a correct diagnosis in the case of a fracture so that timely treatment can be provided to prevent the need for surgery. The nose is made up of a cartilaginous part and a bony part. Injuries to the cartilage may not be as noticeable as injuries to the bone, but they can still cause damage. In children, the cartilages in the nose are relatively larger than the bones compared to adults, making injuries in children more likely to lead to cartilage dislocation, which may only be noticed as a deformity in adolescence.
A nasal fracture is typically diagnosed by a specialist otolaryngologist who will perform a physical examination of the nose and may require X-rays or a CT scan for further evaluation. Misdiagnosing a nasal fracture can lead to negative outcomes. Treatment for a nasal fracture will depend on the severity of the injury, with minor fractures potentially being treated with a bandage or plaster, while more serious fractures may require surgical intervention to restore the nose to its proper position and integrity.
The timing of fracture treatment is also crucial, with immediate treatment within 6 hours of the injury potentially allowing for restoration without surgery. This immediate treatment is typically done under local or general anesthesia using special tools like Boyas O ash forceps. If treatment is delayed, waiting for the swelling to go down before attempting to restore the fracture may be necessary, but can lead to less favorable results due to scar tissue formation. Recovery from a broken nose can take weeks to months, during which the nose may be swollen and painful. Supportive measures like special plasters may be recommended to aid in the healing process.
Overall, proper diagnosis and timely treatment are essential for optimizing outcomes in cases of nasal fractures. It is important to follow the recommendations of healthcare providers to ensure proper healing and restoration of the nose.