Nasal fractures are typically reduced using a combination of topical and infiltrative local anesthesia, often with closed reduction performed 5 to 7 days after the injury. This timeframe allows for swelling to subside, making palpation and manipulation of the bone fragments easier.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is crucial for patient comfort during the reduction.
- Topical Anesthesia: Applied to the nasal passages to numb the area.
- Infiltrative Anesthesia: Injected into the surrounding tissues to provide deeper and more complete pain relief.
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Timing: While some fractures may require immediate attention, ideally, reduction is performed 5 to 7 days post-injury. This waiting period allows:
- Swelling Reduction: Decreased edema facilitates accurate assessment and manipulation of the fractured bones.
- Improved Palpation: Makes it easier to feel and identify the fractured segments.
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Closed Reduction: This involves manipulating the bones back into their correct position without making an incision. Instruments are typically used to elevate and align the fractured nasal bones.
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Types of Fractures Addressed: According to the reference, closed reduction with local anesthesia is often successful for type IIa to type IV nasal fractures in adults.
In summary, nasal fracture reduction commonly involves local anesthesia (topical and infiltrative) and closed reduction techniques performed several days after the injury to improve accuracy and patient comfort.
