Partial middle turbinectomy by nasotracheal intubation

Abstract

Partial middle turbinate avulsion is a rare complication of nasotracheal intubation. Patients usually experience a brisk hemorrhage at the time of injury. Postoperatively, some patients develop a unilateral nasal obstruction, while others are asymptomatic. We present an unusual case in which a patient became symptomatic many years after the incident. We hope to raise awareness that a traumatic disruption of the turbinates secondary to nasotracheal intubation might lead to the development of an abnormal nasopharyngeal mass.