The efficiency of bipolar radiofrequency surgery in inferior turbinate hypertrophy

Abstract

Objectives:The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency, reliability and mucosal effects of radiofrequency ablation therapy in inferior turbinate hypertrophy.Methods: Thirty-six patients (15 males and 21 females), mean age 31-year-old with isolated inferior concha hypertrophy and did not responded to medical therapy, were included in the study. Radiofrequency ablation therapy (RAT) was performed on all patients under local anaesthesia. Nasal obstruction symptoms were evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) before and after the treatment. Nasal airway changes were assessed via acoustic rhinometry before and after decongestant application, before and at the 6th week after treatment and then minimal cross-sectional area (MCA) and volume measures were done. The effect of RAT on mucocilliary activity was evaluated via the saccharin test.Results: Nasal obstruction scores in the VAS decreased significantly and MCA and nasal volume values increased significantly which were assessed using acoustic rhinometry. In acoustic rhinometry measurements after decongestant application; there was no statistically significant improvement between preoperative and postoperative values (p<0.05). In acoustic rhinometry measures without decongestant application; there was a significant increase in postoperative MCA and volume values. There was no statistical difference in preoperative and postoperative mucociliary clearence rates measured via the saccharin test.Conclusion: It was seen that RAT did not cause any mucosal damage. RAT is an effective minimally invasive technique, which can be performed under local anaesthesia and does not effect postoperative social activities of patients.

Keywords

• inferior turbinate hypertrophy
• radiofrequency
• visual analog scale