DNS surgery, more accurately referred to as surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum (DNS), is generally considered successful in improving breathing for most patients. However, complete resolution of breathing issues isn't always guaranteed, with improvements often ranging from 70% to 90%.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Purpose of DNS Surgery: The primary goal is to straighten a deviated nasal septum, the cartilage and bone that separates the nasal passages. A severely deviated septum can obstruct airflow, leading to difficulty breathing, congestion, and other related issues.
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Expected Outcomes:
- Improved airflow through the nasal passages.
- Reduced nasal congestion.
- Easier breathing, especially during physical activity or sleep.
- Reduced frequency of sinus infections (in some cases).
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Success Rate & Patient Satisfaction: While individual results vary, most patients experience significant improvement in their breathing after undergoing septoplasty (the surgical procedure to correct a DNS). The reference suggests improvements in the 70-90% range are common.
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Factors Influencing Success:
- Severity of the Deviation: A more severe deviation might not be completely correctable.
- Presence of Other Nasal Issues: Conditions like enlarged turbinates or nasal polyps can also contribute to breathing problems. These may need to be addressed in addition to the septoplasty.
- Surgical Technique: The skill and experience of the surgeon play a crucial role.
- Patient Adherence to Post-Operative Instructions: Proper care after surgery is essential for optimal healing and results.
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Limitations: It's important to have realistic expectations. While significant improvement is typical, DNS surgery might not completely eliminate all breathing problems. Some individuals may still experience some degree of nasal congestion or difficulty breathing, even after a successful procedure.
In summary, surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum is often successful in improving breathing, but the extent of improvement can vary, and complete resolution of all breathing problems isn't always guaranteed.
