Endoscopic septoplasty: indications, technique, and results.

Endoscopic septoplasty is an attractive alternative to traditional "headlight" approaches to septoplasty. The primary advantage of the technique is the ability to reduce morbidity and postoperative swelling in isolated septal deviations by limiting the dissection to the area of the deviation. This ability to markedly reduce the extent of subperichondrial dissection is particularly valuable in patients who have undergone prior septal cartilage resection. Other advantages include improved visualization, particularly in posterior septal deformities; improved surgical transition between septoplasty and sinus surgery; and its use as an effective teaching tool. We present our experience with endoscopic septoplasty in a series of 111 patients. Surgical indications, technique, and complications are discussed.