LATERA® Implants
LATERA is an absorbable, latex-free nasal implant used to support the upper and lower cartilage inside the lateral wall of the nose. The implant is fully absorbed at about 18 months after the procedure and is replaced by a collagen matrix. Individuals interested in LATERA implants should speak to their otolaryngologist or facial plastic surgeon.
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths located in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They may form as a result of chronic inflammation and may also be associated with recurring infection, allergies, asthma, drug sensitivity or an immune disorder.
Why LATERA?
More than 20 million Americans have nasal airway obstruction. Because nasal breathing delivers approximately 70% of airflow to the lungs, any blockage that limits airflow can negatively affect an individual’s life.
A clinical study found that LATERA patients experienced:
- Less trouble breathing through the nose
- Reduced nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Less difficulty sleeping
- Improved ability to breathe through the nose during exercise or exertion
- Reduced nasal blockage or obstruction
The Two Types of Nasal Valve Collapse
The nasal valve is located in the middle to lower part of the nose and is responsible for limiting airflow. Because the valve is normally very narrow, any additional narrowing can significantly reduce airflow and lead to complete blockage. Common causes of a nasal valve collapse include nose surgery or injury to the nose.
The internal nasal valve is responsible for the largest part of the nasal resistance and is located between the skin and the respiratory epithelium, which is the lining of the respiratory tract that moistens and protects the airways. The external nasal valve consists of the nasal floor, nasal rim and the columella, which is the piece of skin and cartilage that divides the nostrils.
Nasal valve collapse may occur on one or both sides of the nose. If nasal valve collapse has occurred on both sides, individuals are more likely to have a completely blocked nasal airway.
Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should consult their doctor to identify the cause.
A LATERA implant may be a suitable option for individuals who have:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Difficulty getting enough air through the nose during exercise or exertion
Patients should speak to their doctor to find out if LATERA is a good option for them. Important questions to ask a doctor include:
- What is causing my nasal obstruction: a structural abnormality or inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages?
- Does the modified Cottle test indicate I have nasal valve collapse?
- Is my nasal obstruction caused by nasal valve collapse?
- What are my risks and benefits to receiving the LATERA implant?
- Do you perform LATERA implant surgery?
- Will the procedure be performed in a clinic or hospital?
- What does the recovery process look like?
Risks of LATERA include temporary symptoms such as inflammation, awareness of the implant, mild bruising, and mild pain or irritation. Other risks include infection, discomfort, reaction to the material and need to retrieve the device.