ear, nose, and throat disorders
How To Treat Anterior Epistaxis With Cautery
Warnings and Common Errors When Treating Anterior Epistaxis With Cautery
Do not open the nasal speculum laterally or use the nasal speculum in an unsupported manner. (Brace a finger of the hand holding the speculum on the patient's cheek or nose.) Avoid burning the mucous membrane too deeply. Cautery withsilver nitrateis less likely to burn too deeply and is preferred to electrocautery. Do not cauterize the nasal septum bilaterally because doing so increases the risk of septal injury and perforation. 