Bryanna,
Your wisdom and insight is much appreciated!
My concern was that failure of Gelfoam to stop air movement meant the "patch" was not functioning, and with air moving through the pinhole (which shows no sign of infection) healing would not take place. Thanks for your reassurance that minor air movement of itself, is not a problem in the short term and the opening should heal by itself. I do not smoke or use straws and have been scrupulously avoiding any depressurization of my oral cavity, but as you know, it can be quite difficult to avoid. I'll continue my efforts to not move air through the opening, use the saline and trust healing will gradually happen over coming days. As mentioned, I'll see my perio early next week and will eat the gummy bears, as god intended.
Once again, my sincere thanks and I'm pleased someone with your credentials is a Forum participant!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bryanna
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 ~'.'~
|