Should My Child Undergo Surgery for Nasal Injury and Ear Issue?

Q: Should My Child Undergo Surgery for Nasal Injury and Ear Issue?

Hello： Since I have not observed your son's clinical presentation, I am afraid I cannot provide you with in-depth advice. <br>I recommend discussing the issue of surgery with Dr. <br>Hsu. <br>(Dr. <br>Hsu is a physician trained at a medical center and should possess excellent pro

Do I need surgery?

Hello, my child is about to turn 4 years old.
A few days ago, on January 14th, he fell and hit his nose against a cabinet, resulting in a bruise on the bridge of his right nose.
The doctor mentioned that there is a slight displacement of the bone.
He said that if it’s not a major concern, we can leave it as is, but there is a possibility that it might become crooked in the future.
However, if we want to realign it, it would require general anesthesia, and the doctor advised that it should be done within 10 days.
I am worried because he is still very young, and I am unsure whether to proceed with the treatment or wait until he is older.
Additionally, he has a small hole on his ear that has an unpleasant odor but has never been inflamed; it only causes some itching.
I thought that since general anesthesia is required, it might be better to address the ear issue at the same time.
I would like to know your opinion on the following questions: (1) Is correction necessary? Is there a chance it will heal on its own? (2) Is it possible to address the ear issue at the same time? (3) Are there risks associated with anesthesia, or potential long-term effects? (4) Do you recommend that we proceed with the surgery? Please respond as soon as possible, as we are scheduled for surgery with Dr.
Hsu Ming-Jeh at Luodong Boai Hospital on January 23rd, which is very soon.
Thank you.

Wei Nan Ma Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/17

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Since I have not observed your son's clinical presentation, I am afraid I cannot provide you with in-depth advice.
I recommend discussing the issue of surgery with Dr.
Hsu.
(Dr.
Hsu is a physician trained at a medical center and should possess excellent professional knowledge.) All anesthesia and surgical procedures carry certain risks.
Sincerely, Dr.
Hsu-Ksin Hu, Otolaryngologist.

Reply Date: 2007/01/17

More Info

When considering whether your child should undergo surgery for a nasal injury and an ear issue, there are several important factors to take into account. Based on the information provided, your child has sustained a nasal injury with some displacement of the nasal bone, and there is also a concern regarding a small hole in the ear that has not shown signs of infection but has caused some itching and odor.

1. Nasal Injury Correction: The decision to correct the nasal bone displacement largely depends on the degree of misalignment and the potential for future complications. If the doctor has indicated that the displacement is minor and that it may not cause significant issues later on, it might be reasonable to monitor the situation. However, if there is a risk that the nose could heal in a crooked position, surgical correction may be advisable. Generally, nasal fractures in children can heal well on their own, but if there is noticeable deformity or functional impairment, surgical intervention may be necessary. Since the doctor mentioned that it is best to address this within 10 days, it suggests that there is a window for optimal correction.

2. Combining Procedures: It is common practice to combine procedures when a child is already undergoing anesthesia for one issue. If the ear issue is not urgent but could be addressed at the same time, it may be beneficial to do so. However, the decision should be made in consultation with the surgeon, who can assess the ear condition and determine if it is appropriate to address it during the same surgical session. The small hole in the ear, if it is causing odor and discomfort, may warrant attention, especially if it could lead to further complications.

3. Anesthesia Risks: All surgeries involving general anesthesia carry some risks, particularly in young children. These risks can include respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and complications related to the anesthesia itself. However, when performed in a controlled medical environment by experienced professionals, the risks are generally low. It is crucial to discuss any concerns regarding anesthesia with the anesthesiologist or the surgical team prior to the procedure. They can provide detailed information about the safety protocols in place and what to expect.

4. Recommendation: Given the urgency of the situation and the upcoming surgery date, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with the surgeon, Dr. Hsu Ming-Che, regarding all your concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your child's specific condition and the potential outcomes of surgery versus non-intervention. If the surgeon believes that both the nasal injury and the ear issue can be safely addressed together, and if the benefits outweigh the risks, proceeding with the surgery may be the best option.

In summary, while it is understandable to have concerns about surgery and anesthesia for a young child, the decision should be made based on professional medical advice, the severity of the injuries, and the potential for future complications. It is always best to have an open dialogue with the healthcare providers involved to ensure that you are making an informed decision that prioritizes your child's health and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Managing Pediatric Ear Infections: Concerns and Treatment Options

Hello! My child, who is 5 years old, recently developed otitis media due to a cold. After about three days of treatment, the condition could not be controlled, leading to a rupture of the pus-filled sac and damage to the eardrum. I am very concerned about potential impacts on hea...

Dr. Jian Huangqi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Concerned Mom: If the clinic is unable to resolve the issue, you can go to a regional hospital for bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing, followed by targeted treatment. Thank you!

When is the Right Age for Surgery on Preauricular Sinus in Children?

Hello, Doctor: My daughter (2 years old) recently developed an infection in her preauricular sinus that progressed to cellulitis. The physician suggested that after the inflammation is treated, we can proceed with surgical excision at the pediatric otolaryngology department. I wo...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The preauricular sinus does not have any significant function. If there is inflammation, it is recommended to wait until the infection improves before considering surgical excision to prevent recurrent inflammation and infection. There is no specific age limit for the surg...

Post-Surgery Recovery: Addressing Concerns About Ear Tube Removal in Children

Hello Dr. Cheng, my child underwent a preauricular sinus excision on March 2nd and had the sutures removed during a follow-up visit on March 16th. Now the surgical site is discharging pus and appears swollen. Does this indicate that the surgery was not completely successful?

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if the wound is oozing pus or is swollen, it may still be infected. It is recommended to return to the original surgeon's clinic for further examination.

Understanding Septoplasty: Surgery for Nasal Deviation in Teens

My daughter is 13 years old and has been experiencing nasal congestion and headaches for the past few years. She has a history of allergic rhinitis and has had nasal congestion from elementary school through middle school. Since last year, her headaches and nasal congestion have ...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is recommended to postpone septoplasty until after the age of 18 unless there are special circumstances. Prior to that, medical treatment can be considered. If it remains ineffective, you may consider procedures such as inferior turbinate reduction or adenoidectomy, and...