Your child has undergone a plastic surgery procedure requiring the use of nasal stents. Stents are small, hollow, rubbery tubes that fit snuggly into the nostrils. They may be stitched into the nose or they may be taped in place. Stents are used to give support to the nasal cartilage after surgery so it keeps its new shape and size.

While the stents are stitched in, it is important to keep them as clean as possible. You may use normal saline drops, such as Ocean Mist® or Ayr® spray. Place a few drops at a time in each nostril. Use a bulb syringe to help clear any nasal secretions or drainage. This may be done every 3 to 4 hours as needed.

If the stents are stitched in, the stitch will be removed about one week after surgery. You will then receive instructions on how to put the stents in and how to clean them.

Nasal stents are usually worn 12 hours a day for 3 months or until the doctor tells your child to stop wearing them.

Nasal stents are expensive. When they are not in your child’s nose, they should be kept in a special container. The stents are clear in color and can be easily lost in sheets or blankets. If they come out during the night, be sure to check the bed linens very carefully in the morning.

Tips for placing the stents:

• Hold the stent right side up.
• Aim the stent downward toward your child’s mouth.
• Use gentle but firm pressure, place the stent in your child’s nose. You may need to wiggle the stent from side to side.
• The stent should fit completely into your child’s nose without sticking out.

Cleaning the stents:

• Hold the stents under warm running water.
• Rinse them completely.

Call your child’s doctor or the Children’s Mercy Information Line:
at(816) 234–3188 if:

• Your child develops drainage during the first 2 weeks wearing the stent(s).
• Your child develops a fever greater than 100.4°F (38°C).
• Your child becomes irritable.
• Your child refuses to drink.
• Your child develops a rash or redness around the lip or nose area.
• You have any questions or concerns.

Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics

Kansas City,Missouri                                                       Overland Park,Kansas

Care cards are provided as a public education service. The information does not replace instructions your physician gives you. If you have questions about your child's care, please call your physician.

Estas instruccions son provistas como un servicio educacional. La information no sustituye las instrucciones de su medico. Si tiene preguntas encuanto al duidado de su niño, por favor llame a su medico.