A Method for Control of Posterior Nasal Hemorrhage

Abstract

THE MOST common site of epistaxis is from the plexus of vessels on the anterior portion of the nasal septum known as Kiesselbach's plexus. Another frequent location is anterior-superiorly from the ethmoidal vessels. This paper will be limited to a discussion of nasal hemorrhage from a third site, posteriorly from branches of the sphenopalatine artery. Epistaxis from this area can be a perplexing problem for patient and physician alike. Epistaxis from the posterior nasal area is usually found in the elderly and is frequently the result of hypertension. On occasion, merely control of the blood pressure will stop the hemorrhage. Most patients, however, require anterior and posterior nasal packing to control the hemorrhage. One need have experience with only one such patient to recognize his discomfort. A simple method for control of posterior nasal hemorrhage has been devised. An injection of 3 cc of 2% lidocaine (Xylocaine) containing 1:100,000 epinephrine