Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS) is a condition where the nasal septum is displaced to one side. It is the thin wall separating the nasal passages. DNS can cause difficulty in breathing, frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, and sleep disturbances.
In some cases, surgery becomes necessary to correct the deviation and improve the patient’s quality of life. DNS surgery is a common procedure in India, and understanding the costs, the factors influencing the price, and the surgery itself is crucial for those considering this operation.
What is DNS Surgery?
DNS surgery, medically known as Septoplasty, is a procedure to correct the alignment of the nasal septum. This operation involves repositioning the cartilage and bone in the nose to allow better airflow through the nostrils. It is usually recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic nasal blockages, difficulty in breathing, and recurring sinus infections due to a deviated septum.
DNS Full Form in ENT and Medical Abbreviation
In the context of ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat), DNS stands for Deviated Nasal Septum. The medical abbreviation, DNS, refers to this condition, which is one of the most common causes of nasal obstruction. It can be congenital or acquired due to trauma or injury to the nose.
Nasal Conditions treated by ENT specialists
The different diseases and conditions treated by ENT procedures and surgeries include the following:
- Nosebleeds
- Allergies caused by environmental irritants
- Sinusitis (sinus inflammation or infection)
- Rhinitis (inflammation of the mucus membranes that line the nose)
- Nasal polyps (non-cancerous growths)
- Postnasal drip (excess mucus drips from the back of the throat)
- Nasal and paranasal tumors
- Deviated nasal septum (cartilage that separates the nasal cavity is deviated)
Types of deviated nasal septums
The nasal septal deviation angle is divided into four categories based on its degree of deviation.
- Type I (normal): nasal septal angle less than 5°.
- Type II (mild)—naso septal angle from 5° to 10°
- Type III (moderate)—naso septal angle from 10° to 15°
- Type IV (severe)—naso-septal angle more than 15°
Cost of DNS Surgery in India
The cost of DNS surgery in India can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the hospital, the city, the surgeon’s expertise, and additional medical care required before or after the surgery. Below is a table that provides a rough estimate of the costs involved in DNS surgery across different regions in India.
City | Cost Range (INR) |
Mumbai | ₹60,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Delhi | ₹50,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Bengaluru | ₹55,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
Chennai | ₹45,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Hyderabad | ₹50,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
Pune | ₹40,000 – ₹1,10,000 |
Kolkata | ₹45,000 – ₹1,10,000 |
Ahmedabad | ₹40,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
Jaipur | ₹35,000 – ₹90,000 |
Note: These prices are approximate and may vary depending on individual circumstances, hospital facilities, and any additional treatments required.
Factors Influencing the Cost of DNS Surgery in India
1. Location of the Hospital
The city where the surgery is performed significantly impacts the overall cost. For instance, DNS surgery in metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru is more expensive compared to smaller cities or towns. High-end hospitals in metropolitan areas offer state-of-the-art facilities, which could increase the surgery cost.
2. Surgeon’s Expertise
The surgeon’s experience and qualifications also play a crucial role in determining the cost of DNS surgery. Surgeons with extensive experience and specialized expertise in nasal surgeries may charge higher fees for their services. However, this may also provide better surgical outcomes and fewer complications.
3. Hospital Facilities
The type of hospital you choose can greatly influence the price of the DNS surgery. Private hospitals with advanced medical equipment, well-trained staff, and luxurious amenities will charge higher fees than smaller clinics or government hospitals. Facilities like ICU care, post-operative recovery rooms, and additional services can add to the overall expense.
4. Pre-Surgical Tests
Before DNS surgery, patients typically need to undergo various diagnostic tests to ensure they are fit for the procedure. These may include:
- X-rays
- CT scans
- Blood tests
- ECG (if required)
These pre-operative tests can add an extra ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 ($60 – $120) to the total surgery cost.
5. Type of Anesthesia
DNS surgery is generally performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case. General anesthesia is more expensive and may add around ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 ($120 – $360) to the total cost of the procedure.
6. Post-Surgical Care
Post-operative care and medications are essential after DNS surgery. Antibiotics, pain relief medication, and nasal sprays can cost anywhere between ₹2,000 and ₹10,000 ($25 – $120). Follow-up visits to the surgeon, which are necessary to monitor recovery, may also add to the final cost.
7. Insurance Coverage
Many health insurance plans in India cover DNS surgery, especially if it is deemed medically necessary to alleviate breathing difficulties or treat chronic sinus infections. However, cosmetic corrections to the nose may not be covered. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider about the extent of coverage for DNS surgery.
What to Expect During DNS Surgery
1. Before Surgery
Prior to the surgery, your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, including nasal endoscopy and imaging tests, to assess the severity of the deviated septum. You’ll also need to inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions or medications you’re taking. In most cases, you will be advised to avoid food and drink 6-8 hours before the procedure.
2. During Surgery
The actual DNS surgery, or Septoplasty, usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes depending on the complexity of the deviation. It is typically performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision inside the nose to reposition the septum, removing any excess cartilage or bone to ensure proper alignment.
The entire procedure is minimally invasive, meaning there are no visible scars after the surgery.
3. After Surgery
After the operation, patients are usually required to stay in the hospital for a few hours or, in some cases, overnight. Post-operative instructions typically include:
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Using prescribed nasal sprays and medications to prevent infection
- Sleeping with your head elevated to reduce swelling
- Avoiding blowing your nose for at least 1-2 weeks
Full recovery usually takes 1 to 2 months, but most patients can resume daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Follow-up visits to the ENT specialist are necessary to ensure proper healing.
Risks and Complications of DNS Surgery
While DNS surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Common complications include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring inside the nose
- Nasal obstruction due to swelling
- Altered sense of smell
- Septal perforation (rare)
It’s crucial to choose an experienced ENT surgeon to minimize the risks and ensure a successful outcome.
Is DNS Surgery Worth It?
For patients suffering from chronic nasal congestion, difficulty in breathing, or recurring sinus infections due to a deviated septum, DNS surgery can significantly improve the quality of life. The surgery not only helps alleviate symptoms but can also improve sleep quality, reduce headaches, and enhance overall nasal function.
Conclusion
DNS surgery, or Septoplasty, is an effective solution for individuals with a deviated nasal septum, particularly those who experience breathing difficulties or frequent sinus infections. In India, the cost of DNS surgery varies depending on several factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, hospital location, and additional medical care. On average, the cost ranges from ₹35,000 to ₹1,50,000 ($425 – $1,800). While the surgery involves some risks, it can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by DNS.
If you’re considering DNS surgery, it’s important to research your options, consult with experienced ENT specialists, and weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the risk of DNS surgery?
One of the primary risks of deviated septum surgery is bleeding. As with any surgical operation, bleeding can occur during or after the surgery. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that bleeding during the surgery is normally well-controlled by the surgical team, and postpartum bleeding is quite infrequent.
Is the DNS procedure painful?
Most patients report that recovery following surgery to fix a deviated septum is quite painless, and nasal breathing is permanently restored.
Can DNS be repaired without surgery?
It depends on the severity of your disease. Most people do not require deviated septum treatment because they experience few to no symptoms. You can treat minor symptoms with medicines. But if a crooked nasal septum hinders you from breathing properly, you might need surgery.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737055/#:~:text=Type%20I%3A%20localized%20deviation%20including,with%20associated%20external%20nasal%20deformity.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6848586/
- https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Six-types-of-nasal-septal-deviation-Baumann-et-al-2007-10_fig1_264089242