Microscope and hot wire cautery management of 100 consecutive patients with acute epistaxis--a superior method to traditional packing.

The technique of microscope examination and hot wire cautery in a prospective study of 100 consecutive patients with acute epistaxis is described. The method was successful in arresting haemorrhage in 94 per cent of patients bleeding at the time of examination, and in 86 per cent, discharge home within one hour was possible. Due to improved illumination, magnification and control of the cautery instrument, nasal packing was required in only nine per cent of cases. By achieving this and by reducing the overall need for admission to 20 per cent, we recommend this method of treatment both as a successful cost saving measure, as well as advantageous to the patient.