Evaluation of Depression and Anxiety in Empty Nose Syndrome After Surgical Treatment

The research report titled "Evaluation of Depression and Anxiety in Empty Nose Syndrome" investigates the psychological effects of Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) and how surgical treatment can improve the mental health of patients suffering from this condition. ENS is a condition that can occur after nasal surgery, leading to a feeling of excessive nasal emptiness, which can cause various physical and psychological symptoms.

Summary of the Study

Background: ENS is not just about physical changes in the nasal cavity; it also involves psychological aspects. Patients often report feelings of anxiety and depression, which can significantly affect their quality of life. The study aimed to evaluate these psychological symptoms and see if surgical intervention could help.

Methods: The researchers used two main psychological assessment tools: the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). These tools help measure the levels of depression and anxiety in patients. The study involved patients who underwent a specific surgical procedure called endonasal submucosal implantation, where a material (Medpor) or bone grafts were placed in the nasal cavity to improve airflow and reduce symptoms.

Surgical Procedure: The surgery was performed under local anesthesia. The surgeons created a pocket in the nasal wall to insert the implant, aiming to restore a more normal nasal structure and function. The goal was to alleviate the symptoms of ENS and improve the patients' overall well-being.

Findings: After the surgery, patients showed significant improvements in both their depression and anxiety scores. The results indicated that many patients felt less anxious and depressed after the procedure. For example, specific symptoms like feelings of fear, nervousness, and difficulty relaxing were notably reduced.

Conclusions: The study concluded that surgical treatment for ENS not only helps with physical symptoms but also leads to significant improvements in psychological health. This suggests that addressing the physical aspects of ENS can have a positive ripple effect on mental health, providing a better quality of life for patients.

Key Takeaways

ENS is a complex condition that affects both the body and mind. Surgical intervention can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in ENS patients. The study highlights the importance of considering psychological health when treating patients with ENS. Overall, this research emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treating ENS, where both physical and psychological aspects are addressed to improve patient outcomes.