Use of Merocel® aids in prevention of nasal pressure ulcers following nasal intubation: Case series of 33 patients

Nasotracheal intubation is the preferred route of airway management for oral and maxillofacial surgeries.[1] Nasal pressure ulcers are a frequently overlooked complication of this technique, especially in cases where intubation is required for a prolonged period. The necrosis can lead to cosmetic and functional disability that may require prolonged medical care and even surgical correction. It may also raise medicolegal problems. Techniques described in the literature to reduce the risk of alar necrosis include the use of hydrocolloid dressing, polyvinyl alcohol foam, DynaplastTM and modified endotracheal tube (ETT).[2-5] We evaluated the efficacy of the use of polyvinyl alcohol foam dressings to prevent nasal alar necrosis in patients requiring prolonged nasotracheal intubation for surgeries for oral and maxillofacial carcinoma.