A Clinical Study on Association between Unilateral Chronic Otitis Media and Ipsilateral Deviated Nasal Septum

Background: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is defined as chronic inflammation of the middle ear and mastoid cavity, which presents with recurrent otorrhea through a perforated tympanic membrane.Deviated nasal septum (DNS), one of the most common nasal pathologies, leads to ear pathology, mainly due to eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), altering middle ear pressure.Objectives: To assess the relation between unilateral chronic otitis media and ipsilateral DNS.Materials and methods: This is a prospective study conducted in Ballari Medical College & Research Center, Ballari.Fifty (50) patients with unilateral CSOM, selected randomly, were enrolled for this research.A detailed history taking and systematic clinical examination, including otoscopy and anterior rhinoscopy, were done for all patients.Collected data was entered into a specially designed case record pro forma.Results: In our research, we observed that out of 50 individuals, 30 individuals (60%) had ipsilateral DNS.Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between unilateral CSOM and ipsilateral DNS, with a p-value of 0.004.Conclusion: A statistically significant correlation was established between unilateral CSOM and ipsilateral DNS.Deviated nasal septum emerges as a critical factor influencing the persistence of CSOM, advocating for the evaluation and management of nasal and paranasal sinus conditions before surgical intervention.Addressing nasal diseases preoperatively will be useful for optimizing treatment outcomes in CSOM management.Clinical significance: The findings highlight the importance of preoperative assessment and correction of nasal pathologies, like DNS, to improve ET function and optimize outcomes in CSOM management.