Hi Steveo,
The Gelfoam will not necessarily prevent the air flow that you speak about having. It is a Gelatin substance that has potential to help promote healing.
If the perforation is the size of a pinhole and the site is not infected, then it will mostly heal on it's own. However, you will need to do your part to help it heal. Did the surgeon suggest you use a nasal spray? If so, then a simple saline spray is ideal. It is also equally important that you not smoke, drink through a straw, forcefully sneeze or forcefully blow your nose for the next 2 weeks or so.
If the air flow becomes worse, see the surgeon asap. If the air flow does not gradually decrease or go away completely within the next 2-4 weeks, see the surgeon.
Bryanna
PS... avoid using the gummy bear ~'.'~
Quote:
Originally Posted by steveo
Hello,
Had an upper molar pulled extracted earlier this week and recovery (with pain meds) has been nominal. On second day, noticed that, as I had been warned, an air passage had opened into my maxillary sinus. Perio got me back same day, found a pinhole and put in Gelfoam, secured with stitches. Trying to be careful with depressurization of my mouth, but once again, air movement into sinus (day after Gelfoam).
Follow up early next week and optimistic about healing but would like to know if Gelfoam is impermeable to air. Mayne I should jam a sugar free Gummy Bear in the socket  ? Don't want no fistula! 😟
Too late Friday to see the dentist till Monday. Is it too soon to panic or should I simply try to avoid air movement (it's hard to do!) and be patient?
Thanks. |