Document Detail


Epistaxis: update on management.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  21150620     Owner:  NLM     Status:  In-Process    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the literature on epistaxis, with a focus on the past 12-18 month, and aims to classify the literature available for this very common otolaryngology emergency.
RECENT FINDINGS: Epistaxis can be classified into primary or secondary epistaxis based on cause. It can also be classified as childhood and adult epistaxis. These classifications are useful clinically, as the management of each group is different. Primary epistaxis should be managed by identification of the actual bleeding point and treated with chemical or electrocautery, bipolar diathermy or small packs placed directly over the bleeding point. Secondary epistaxis should be managed by identification of the cause, with application of appropriate nasal therapy and, importantly, corrective systemic medical management. We now have useful guidelines for the management of patients whose epistaxis is secondary to warfarin and a growing body of information regarding complementary medicines that may contribute to bleeding. The literature continues to support the role of antiplatelet drugs as important risk factors for epistaxis. Patients with continued epistaxis despite initial measures should be considered earlier, rather than later, for surgical ligation techniques or embolization. Children with epistaxis should be managed with topical antiseptic cream with or without septal cautery.
SUMMARY: Recent literature focuses on the cause and management of epistaxis. Although the level of evidence available for this topic is low, there have been many clinically useful studies that will contribute to an overall improvement in patient care.
Authors:
Louise Melia; Gerald W McGarry
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery     Volume:  19     ISSN:  1531-6998     ISO Abbreviation:  Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg     Publication Date:  2011 Feb 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2011-01-14     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  9417024     Medline TA:  Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  30-5     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK. louisemelia07@gmail.com
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