Nasal cautery for nosebleeds

Category: Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief · All minor procedures, injections & pain relief

What it is

Nasal cautery seals a bleeding blood vessel inside the nose, usually at the front of the nasal septum (Little's area), using a chemical (silver nitrate stick) or an electric/heat cautery device, often under endoscopic view.

Why it is done

It is used for recurrent nosebleeds coming from a visible vessel, when pressure and first aid measures keep failing, and after an acute bleed has been controlled.

How to prepare

You will have your blood pressure checked and medicines reviewed (blood thinners may be continued or adjusted). Tell the clinician about allergies and any previous nasal surgery. No fasting is needed.

What happens during the procedure

The nose is numbed and decongested with sprays; the clinician identifies the vessel (sometimes with a small endoscope) and applies the cautery for a few seconds. You may feel a brief sting or smell. It takes about 10 minutes.

Afterwards — recovery & results

Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, vigorous nose blowing and picking for a few days; use saline spray and a moisturiser (such as petroleum jelly) inside the nostril as advised. A small scab forms and heals over one to two weeks. Return for review if bleeding recurs.

Risks & considerations

Risks include brief pain, crusting, a small perforation of the septum if both sides are cauterised at once (hence usually one side at a time), and recurrence — some vessels need repeat treatment or ENT review for deeper sources.

Frequently asked questions

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