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Referral
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Acute fractured nose
Scope
This guideline covers the primary care management of bilateral nasal obstruction for adults and children.
- Suspicion of septal haematoma
Refer via on call ENT consultant (RD&E switchboard 01392 411 611)
Exclude septal haematoma
- Re-assess 7-10 days post injury
- Once swelling has subsided the need for manipulation under anaesthetic (MUA) can be assessed. MUA should be within 21 days
- If a new external deformity is present - email urgent referral to: rde-tr.opasurgeryteam@nhs.net, clearly marking BROKEN NOSE in subject (do not send via e-Referrals as may delay definitive treatment)
Following an assessment with no evidence of a new external deformity the patient can be reviewed and managed in primary care.
Referral Criteria
GP assessment at 7 days post trauma
Referral Instructions
Same Day ENT assessment
Contact on call SHO (RD&E switchboard 01392 411 611)
Refer to ENT
Email referral to: rde-tr.opasurgeryteam@nhs.net, clearly marking BROKEN NOSE in subject (do not send via e-Referrals as may delay definitive treatment)
Patient Information
Nasal fracture patient leaflet
Evidence
This guideline has been developed by Royal Devon and Exeter Healthcare Foundation Trust based on local guidelines.
Pathway Group
This guideline has been signed off on behalf of NHS Devon.
Publication date: November 2017
Reviewed: April 2024
