Abstract
Introduction Undeflatable Foley catheter balloons adapted for use as nasal packing in epistaxis
represent a possible complication.
Case Reports We report on three cases in which Foley catheter balloons adapted for use as posterior
nasal packing in epistaxis failed to deflate. In one patient, deflation was achieved
by simply using the fingertips to massage the segment of the catheter collapsed by
the fixation device. In the second case, the Foley balloon was removed by the oral
route after sectioning the catheter. In the third patient, the Foley catheter was
successfully deflated after sectioning.
Discussion The probable causes of the undeflatable balloons in these cases were a blockage or
lumen collapse of the balloon or a malfunction in the valve system. Although no definitive
method has been established for dealing with this complication, the options proposed
are the following: manipulation to restore the permeability of the segment of the
catheter collapsed by the fixation device, if this is the case; sectioning the catheter
or inserting a stiletto catheter; bursting the balloon; or removing it by the oral
route. The latter option is apparently the most appropriate for the otolaryngologist
in cases unrelated to simple collapse caused by the fixation device.
Keywords
epistaxis - catheters - nose diseases
