Which of the following is the ideal timing for closed reduction of a nasal fracture?

• A Immediately at the time of injury (within 2 hours)
• B After 3 weeks when bony callus has formed
• C Within 3–7 days after injury, before significant oedema forms or after oedema subsides ✓
• D Timing does not matter as open rhinoplasty can be performed anytime

Explanation

Closed reduction of nasal fractures is best performed either within the first 3 hours (before significant swelling) or, more practically, 5–10 days after injury when swelling has subsided enough to allow accurate assessment but before fibrous union occurs (~2–3 weeks). Beyond 2–3 weeks, open reduction/rhinoplasty may be required. Immediate reduction can be technically difficult due to oedema and pain.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.