Nareseal Thermoplastic Nasal Splints

What it is

Nareseal thermoplastic nasal splints are external nasal support devices made from a low-temperature thermoplastic material that becomes pliable when heated in warm water and rigid when cooled to room temperature. This allows the splint to be custom-moulded to the individual patient's nasal contour at the time of application, providing a precise fit that distributes support evenly across the dorsum and sidewalls. The material is lightweight and radiolucent.

When & how it's used

Applied externally over the nose following rhinoplasty and septoplasty to immobilise the nasal structures, protect the operative site from accidental trauma, and support oedema reduction during the early healing phase. Thermoplastic splints are preferred over rigid aluminium splints when a moderate degree of immobilisation is required alongside patient comfort, and when the mouldability of the material is needed to conform to an irregular or oedematous post-operative nasal shape. They are typically worn for 7–14 days post-operatively.

External nasal splinting is standard practice following rhinoplasty and most septoplasty procedures. The splint serves three functions: immobilisation of repositioned nasal bones and cartilage during the critical early healing window; protection of the nose from accidental contact trauma when the bones are at their most vulnerable; and compression support that helps control oedema and define the new nasal shape during the swelling phase. Thermoplastic splints add a fourth advantage over rigid prefabricated options — custom conformity. Because the material is mouldable at low temperatures achievable with warm tap water, the splint can be shaped precisely to the post-operative nasal contour at the time of application, ensuring there are no pressure points from a poor fit that might cause skin breakdown or patient non-compliance.

Application involves softening the splint in warm water (approximately 60–70°C) for 30–60 seconds, drying it briefly, and then moulding it over the nose with gentle digital pressure while it cools and sets. Most thermoplastic splints are applied over a layer of adhesive tape or foam dressing to protect the skin. The three sizes (Small, Medium, Large) cover the anatomical range from paediatric patients to adults with larger or longer nasal anatomy. The radiolucent property means that if post-operative imaging is required, the splint does not need to be removed before X-ray.

Design features

• Mouldable thermoplastic material: Custom conforms to the individual patient’s post-operative nasal shape when softened in warm water; rigid at room temperature.
• Three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large cover paediatric through large adult anatomy.
• Lightweight: Minimal weight reduces discomfort during the 7–14 day wearing period.
• Radiolucent: Does not appear on plain film X-ray; post-operative imaging can be performed without splint removal.
• Breathable surface: Material allows air circulation at the skin interface, reducing maceration risk during prolonged wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a thermoplastic nasal splint applied post-operatively? The splint is heated in warm water (approximately 60–70°C) for 30–60 seconds until pliable. It is then dried with gauze, placed over the nose — typically over an adhesive tape underlay — and moulded gently with finger pressure to conform to the nasal contour. The material sets within 2–3 minutes as it cools to room temperature.

Can thermoplastic splints be remoulded and reused between dressings changes? The material can be reheated and remoulded if the fit needs adjustment — for example, as post-operative oedema reduces in the first few days. However, splints should not be remoulded multiple times as repeated heating may affect the material properties. They are intended as single-patient use items.

How does a thermoplastic splint compare to an aluminium splint? Thermoplastic splints conform better to individual nasal anatomy and are more comfortable for longer wear periods. Aluminium splints are more rigid and provide firmer immobilisation, which may be preferred after osteotomies or nasal fracture reduction. The choice between them depends on the degree of immobilisation required and surgeon preference.

When is the splint removed? Typically at 7–14 days post-operatively at the first post-operative review. Some rhinoplasty surgeons remove at 7 days and apply a lighter retention dressing for a further week. The exact timing depends on the procedure performed and the surgeon’s protocol.