latex glove finger pack in nasal surgery

ABSTRACT

Nasal packing is necessary following nasal surgery for the prevention of postoperative bleeding, adhesions, clot and crust formation as well as for midline support of the nasal septum. A multitude of packs used in the nose have been reported with varying degrees of success. In this prospective study on a series of patients who have undergone nasal surgery, we randomly selected one of three types of packs; the Vaseline impregnated gauze pack [VIG], the Merocel sponge pack [MSP], and the latex glove finger pack [LGF]. All cases were operated at the Hearing and Speech Institute in the period between January and December 2003 by one of the authors [HFS]. The study demonstrated that the glove finger pack is a safe convenient and inexpensive material, and is also associated with the least degree of trauma and patient discomfort, particularly during its removal. In cases were significant bleeding is expected however the LGF pack may not be the most reliable one for establishment of hemostasis, and the Merocel or the impregnated gauze packs are superior to the LGF in this aspect. Patients with a history suggestive of rubber latex allergy as health care workers, latex factory workers and Spina bifida patients should be recognized so that the LGF pack is avoided