Effect of submucosal diathermy in chronic nasal obstruction due to turbinate enlargement

A comparison of symptoms and quality of life between medial flap and coblation turbinator of inferior turbinate reduction in endoscopic septoturbinoplasty: an analysis of 108 cases

Introduction

The combination of septoplasty and turbinoplasty is a common surgical and accepted intervention to correct the nasal obstruction. The coblation submucosal reduction turbinator is a new surgical device, and it started to be used recently. On the other hand, the medial flap inferior turbinoplasty is not a conservative technique, but it provides a reliable and robust reduction.

Objective

This study aims to compare the symptoms as well as health-related quality of life (HQOL) in 55 patients who underwent septoplasty with concomitent medial flap inferior turbinoplasty (group 1), 53 patients who patients underwent septoplasty with concomitent coblation turbinator (group 2).

Patients and methods

The authors performed a prospective, randomized study of 108 patients who consulted the otorhinolaryngology department at the university hospital for surgery of septoturbinoplasty.

Results

Preoperatively, the two patient groups had quite similar symptoms and health-related quality of life, and the anterior width of the inferior turbinate showed significant differences between the contralateral and deviated sides but not the posterior part. The significant difference (P<0.05) was noted for postoperatively improved symptom scores on visual analogue scale (VAS), nasal obstruction septoplasty effectiveness (NOSE) and better HQOL [Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22)] in all patient groups. In addition, the NOSE and SNOT-22 scores in group 2 had significantly greater improvement than group 1 (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Septoturbinoplasty treatment of septum deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy led to less symptoms as well as better HQOL for all two patient groups. Therefore, these techniques were an effective intervention for turbinate reduction, and they are equally efficient in the long term.

Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Inferior Turbinate Reduction and Immunotherapy in Allergic Rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common condition that is frequently associated with atopic inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) resulting in nasal obstruction. Current guidelines support the use of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) when patients fail pharmacologic management. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the role of inferior turbinate reduction (ITR), a treatment that we hypothesize is cost-effective compared with other available treatments.

METHODS

We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the following treatment combinations over a 5-year time horizon for AR patients presenting with atopic nasal obstruction who fail initial pharmacotherapy: (1) continued pharmacotherapy alone, (2) allergy testing and SCIT, (3) allergy testing and SCIT and then ITR for SCIT nonresponders, and (4) ITR and then allergy testing and SCIT for ITR nonresponders. Results were reported as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs).

RESULTS

For patients who fail initial pharmacotherapy, prioritizing ITR, either by microdebrider-assisting submucous resection or radiofrequency ablation, before SCIT was the most cost-effective strategy. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrated that prioritizing ITR before SCIT was the most cost-effective option in 95.4% of scenarios. ITR remained cost-effective even with the addition of concurrent septoplasty.

CONCLUSION

For many AR patients who present with nasal obstruction secondary to atopic inferior turbinate hypertrophy that is persistent despite pharmacotherapy, ITR is a cost-effective treatment that should be considered prior to immunotherapy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA - Laryngoscope, 2023 Laryngoscope, 134:1572-1580, 2024.

Efficacy of Submucosal Diathermy of Inferior Turbinate in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis Undergoing Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Aim

To assess the efficacy of submucosal diathermy (SMD) in Chronic rhinosinusitis and inferior turbinate hypertrophy undergoing Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a Randomized Prospective study in patients undergoing Functional Endoscopic Sinus surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis in a tertiary care centre in South India for a period of 2 years. Patients were divided into two groups, Group A underwent FESS and Group B underwent FESS with SMD. The outcome was evaluated using nasal endoscopy score (NES), modified SNOT score and Modified Lund Kennedy scores.

Results

A total of 80 patients were included in this study.40 patients were allotted in each group. Male: Female ratio was 48:32. The age distribution ranged from 19 to 44 years with a mean of 29.55 ± 6.90 yrs. Mean NES scores, Modified SNOT and Modified Lund -kennedy scores were estimated pre-operatively and during 1st, 2nd and 3rd month of post-operative periods. The mean pre-operative sores were comparable in both the groups except NES score, which was higher in group B. Both the groups showed significant improvement in post-operative period. Inter group comparison showed significant difference in all scores with group B having better results when compared to group A.

Conclusion

This study proves that FESS combined with SMD improves the postoperative clinical outcomes when compared with FESS without turbinate reduction. We conclude that SMD is a simple, mucosal preserving technique with almost no complications and can be safely done along with FESS to improve the outcomes .

International consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: Allergic rhinitis - 2023

BACKGROUND

In the 5 years that have passed since the publication of the 2018 International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis (ICAR-Allergic Rhinitis 2018), the literature has expanded substantially. The ICAR-Allergic Rhinitis 2023 update presents 144 individual topics on allergic rhinitis (AR), expanded by over 40 topics from the 2018 document. Originally presented topics from 2018 have also been reviewed and updated. The executive summary highlights key evidence-based findings and recommendation from the full document.

METHODS

ICAR-Allergic Rhinitis 2023 employed established evidence-based review with recommendation (EBRR) methodology to individually evaluate each topic. Stepwise iterative peer review and consensus was performed for each topic. The final document was then collated and includes the results of this work.

RESULTS

ICAR-Allergic Rhinitis 2023 includes 10 major content areas and 144 individual topics related to AR. For a substantial proportion of topics included, an aggregate grade of evidence is presented, which is determined by collating the levels of evidence for each available study identified in the literature. For topics in which a diagnostic or therapeutic intervention is considered, a recommendation summary is presented, which considers the aggregate grade of evidence, benefit, harm, and cost.

CONCLUSION

The ICAR-Allergic Rhinitis 2023 update provides a comprehensive evaluation of AR and the currently available evidence. It is this evidence that contributes to our current knowledge base and recommendations for patient evaluation and treatment.

Outcome of Submucosal Inferior Turbinoplasty in Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Pharmacotherapy forms mainstay of treatment for allergic rhinitis, and has adverse effects associated with it. Topical steroid therapy is the preferred medication and considered best for long term prophylaxis but with limited compliance. Submucosal turbinoplasty reduces the duration of treatment in comparison to topical steroid which has to be taken daily for a long time. The aim was to evaluate the outcome of submucosal inferior turbinoplasty in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis. A prospective interventional study was performed on 35 patients diagnosed with perennial allergic rhinitis, diagnosed as per ARIA criteria from July 2016 to July 2018. The severity of the disease was assessed using mini RQLQ scoring system. The patients were then subjected to bilateral submucosal inferior turbinoplasty under endoscopic guidance under local anesthesia. 50% significant improvement (p value < 0.05) seen in symptoms were need to blow nose, sneezing, nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, watery eyes, need to rub eye, regular house work, recreational activities, sore eyes, tiredness, irritability and thirst. 100% improvement (p value < 0.05) seen in symptoms were sleep, need to blow nose, sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, need to rub eye, recreational activities and irritability. Nasal obstruction was not severe in 17 (48.5%) patients giving a very good symptom relief and improving quality of life. This is due to reduction in the erectile tissue and roominess in the nasal cavity. All patients with allergic rhinitis with associated hypertrophied turbinates should invariably be given option of inferior turbinoplasty along with proper counselling regarding its advantages and disadvantages.

Outcome comparison of submucous resection versus combined submucous diathermy and outfracture for treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of submucous resection and combined submucous diathermy with outfracture technique in treatment of nasal obstruction caused by inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

METHODS

This study is a prospective randomized clinical trial involving 90 patients with hypertrophied inferior turbinate not responding to medical treatment. All patients were selected with equal or near equal mucosal and bony turbinate components using computed tomography (CT) and then randomly allocated into two groups; group A (n = 45): underwent submucous resection in both sides and group B (n = 45): underwent combined submucous diathermy and outfracture in both sides. Subjective (NOSE score) and objective (4-grades endoscopic classification system and PNIF evaluation) measures of nasal airflow were done preoperatively and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Subjective assessment using NOSE scale proved that both techniques were effective in relieving nasal obstruction as it improved in both groups postoperatively compared to the preoperative data. However, resection technique was better than diathermy technique with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05), while objective assessment of nasal obstruction showed better results in resection group than diathermy group, but with no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques are effective in relief of nasal obstruction due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. However, submucous resection showed marked improvement compared to diathermy technique especially at long-term follow-up.

Electrosurgery Turbinate Reduction Revisited: Can Comparable Volumetric Heating be Achieved Without Feedback Control?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Temperature-controlled radiofrequency inferior turbinate ablation (TCRFA) uses a feedback system to control thermal injury and achieve precise volumetric heating to induce specific scar formation. However, it requires costly single-use proprietary consumables. Comparable volumetric tissue heating may be achieved for a fraction of the cost by adjusting the power settings on traditional monopolar electrosurgery devices that use low-cost needle tips. This pre-clinical study aims to determine the optimized power parameters to achieve electrosurgical coagulum volume similar to that of TCRFA.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electrosurgery submucosal diathermy (SMD) system (cut mode, 4-32 W, 5-120 seconds) and a temperature-controlled radiofrequency ablation system (standard clinical parameters for treating inferior turbinate hypertrophy) were used to coagulate egg white and chicken breast. Coagulum major and minor axis were measured, and lesion volume was approximated as prolate spheroid.

RESULTS

No significant difference in volume was found between the temperature-controlled system and the electrosurgery system at 8 W for 30 seconds, 8 W for 60 seconds, 16 W for 30 seconds, 32 W for 5 seconds, and 32 W for 15 seconds. The time to achieve equivalent lesion size was significantly less in the SMD system when compared to the temperature-controlled system (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Electrosurgery handpieces may achieve similar lesion volume effects as the temperature feedback-controlled, single-use handpieces when set to the optimized parameters. SMD handpieces are significantly more cost and time effective than proprietary devices, and they are easily used in the office. SMD devices may be a more affordable alternative to temperature-controlled systems with comparable lesion volume effect and may be valuable for office-based therapy. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy: A Review of the Evolution of Management in Children

Background

Historically, there has been uncertainty in the treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) in children. Although management always begins with medical therapy, the decision to offer surgery in resistant cases is becoming more widely practiced. In the pediatric population, turbinate reduction can be achieved with turbinectomy, electrocautery, lasers, submucous microdebridement, and radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction (RVTR). However, there remains a lack of consensus on the preferred approach to treatment.

Objective

To compare how the efficacy, duration, and complications of different surgical methods has changed the management of inferior turbinate hypertrophy in children over time.

Methods

In March 2018, a comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed for all inferior turbinate hypertrophy management-related studies in children. Inclusion criteria included children (age, 1–17 years). Exclusion criteria included reviews and abstracts.

Results

Each technique has experienced a period of popularity over the last 30 years in parallel with the technology available at the time as well as evidence from studies in adults. The literature for ITH management in children has largely followed these trends, with a recent improvement in the quality of studies mirroring the overall increase in surgical practice. Of all methods currently used, RVTR and submucous microdebridement offer the least invasive and most efficacious relief of nasal obstruction.

Conclusion

This review provides an overview of the evolution of ITH management in children and, based on historic and current evidence, proposes the following graduated recommendation to treatment: (1) a 3-month trial of medical management, (2) evaluation for adenoid hypertrophy for consideration of concurrent adenoidectomy, and (3) RVTR or submucous microdebridement as the first-line surgical approach.

Endoscopic Submucosal Resection Versus Endoscopic Submucosal Diathermy for Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy

Endoscopic submucous resection and endoscopic submucous diathermy of the inferior turbinate are two different surgical methods of reducing size in turbinate hypertrophy. We aimed to compare the efficacy of both methods in reducing the nasal symptoms and improving nasal airway. This is a prospective randomized controlled trial conducted in a tertiary hospital, involving fifty patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy not relieved by medications. After preoperative airway grading using a subjective symptom score, objective airway score and endoscopic score, patients were randomized to undergo either endoscopic submucous diathermy or endoscopic submucous resection. The primary outcome was postoperative improvement of airway and reduction of nasal symptoms. Secondary outcomes were postoperative bleeding and pain. All 24 patients who underwent endoscopic submucous diathermy and 26 who underwent endoscopic submucous resection showed statistically significant reduction in nasal symptoms both in the immediate and late postoperative periods. Patients who underwent endoscopic submucous resection showed greater improvement of airway at 1 week than those who had endoscopic submucous diathermy (p = 0.001). This difference however equalized at the 3-6 months postoperative period. Postoperative bleeding (p = 0.02) and pain (p = 0.04) were significantly more in patients who underwent endoscopic submucous resection. Both endoscopic submucous diathermy and endoscopic submucous resection are equally effective in improving airway in inferior turbinate hypertrophy with a slight advantage of endoscopic submucous resection in the early postoperative period. Reduced postoperative bleeding and pain may make endoscopic submucous diathermy a more attractive option overall.

Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy in Rhinoplasty: Systematic Review of Surgical Techniques

BACKGROUND

Inferior turbinate hypertrophy is often encountered by plastic surgeons who perform rhinoplasty. Many treatment options are available to treat the inferior turbinate. The objective of this study was to systematically review outcomes of available techniques and provide guidance to surgical turbinate management.

METHODS

A MEDLINE search was performed for means of treating inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Studies selected focused on treatment of the inferior turbinate in isolation and excluding patients with refractory allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, or hypertrophic rhinitis.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight articles were identified, collectively including the following surgical treatments of inferior turbinate hypertrophy: total turbinectomy, partial turbinectomy, submucosal resection, laser surgery, cryotherapy, electrocautery, radiofrequency ablation, and turbinate outfracture. Outcomes and complications were collected from all studies. Procedures such as turbinectomy (partial/total) and submucosal resection showed crusting and epistaxis at comparatively higher rates, whereas more conservative treatments such as cryotherapy and submucous diathermy failed to provide long-term results. Submucosal resection and radiofrequency ablation were shown to decrease nasal resistance and preserve mucosal function. No literature exists to support the belief that turbinate outfracture alone is an effective treatment for turbinate hypertrophy.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy is best accomplished with modalities that provide long-lasting results, preservation of turbinate function, and low complication rates. Submucosal resection and radiofrequency ablation appear to best fulfill these criteria. Turbinate outfracture should only be considered in combination with tissue-reduction procedures.

Phenotypes and endotypes of rhinitis and their impact on management: a PRACTALL report

Rhinitis is an umbrella term that encompasses many different subtypes, several of which still elude complete characterization. The concept of phenotyping, being the definition of disease subtypes on the basis of clinical presentation, has been well established in the last decade. Classification of rhinitis entities on the basis of phenotypes has facilitated their characterization and has helped practicing clinicians to efficiently approach rhinitis patients. Recently, the concept of endotypes, that is, the definition of disease subtypes on the basis of underlying pathophysiology, has emerged. Phenotypes/endotypes are dynamic, overlapping, and may evolve into one another, thus rendering clear-cut definitions difficult. Nevertheless, a phenotype-/endotype-based classification approach could lead toward the application of stratified and personalized medicine in the rhinitis field. In this PRACTALL document, rhinitis phenotypes and endotypes are described, and rhinitis diagnosis and management approaches focusing on those phenotypes/endotypes are presented and discussed. We emphasize the concept of control-based management, which transcends all rhinitis subtypes.

Radiofrequency Coblation Versus Intramural Bipolar Cautery for the Treatment of Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy

OBJECTIVE

Compare intramural bipolar electrocautery and radiofrequency coblation in the treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy with regards to objective and subjective improvement in nasal obstruction, rate and type of complications, experience during the procedure, and rate of recovery.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, single-blinded study.

SETTING

Single tertiary medical center from 2008 to 2010.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty-one adult patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy refractory to medical management were treated with radiofrequency coblation in one nostril and intramural bipolar cautery in the other. Subjective and objective data, including use of a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for subjective outcomes, acoustic rhinometry, and nasal endoscopy, were then obtained from each patient comparing the 2 techniques.

RESULTS

Radiofrequency coblation was significantly less painful than intramural bipolar cautery during the procedure (P = .03) and during the early postoperative period (P < .02) and produced less crusting at 3 weeks (P = .009). Both interventions were similar in subjective and objective improvements in nasal obstruction as measured by acoustic rhinometry and subjective VAS outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency coblation seems to offer an equivalent alternative to bipolar electrocautery for the treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy with less discomfort during the procedure and early post-operative period.

Inferior turbinate hypertrophy: review and graduated approach to surgical management

BACKGROUND

Surgical techniques for managing inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) vary widely and have evolved substantially in the past four decades as new technologies have emerged.

METHODS

Literature review.

RESULTS

Inferior turbinate (IT) procedures can be categorized as: simple turbinate outfracture; turbinoplasty techniques such as extramucosal destruction, and submucosal tissue removal; and extramural turbinate resection (partial or complete). Each of these approaches has advantages and drawbacks. Considerations for technique selection include clinical setting (in-office versus operating room), cost of the devices used, efficacy of the procedure to relieve nasal obstruction, and minimizing postoperative complications such as nuisance bleeding, adhesion formation, and crusting.

CONCLUSION

There are a variety of contemporary surgical techniques used for IT reduction. This article highlights the available literature and gaps in current knowledge. A graduated approach to the management of ITH will be presented.

[Microdebrider-assisted inferior turbinoplasty. Minimally invasive technique for the treatment of nasal airway obstruction caused by enlarged turbinates]

BACKGROUND

Various methods are available for the surgical treatment of nasal airway obstruction caused by enlarged turbinates. These methods include partial turbinectomy, submucosal electrocautery, radiofrequency surgery, and laser turbinoplasty, all of which can have adverse effects such as defects of the mucous lining of the turbinates, prolonged postoperative healing, and bleeding. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effectiveness and potential adverse effects of microdebrider-assisted inferior turbinoplasty (MAIT), which is a less commonly used treatment option.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a prospective randomized study, 35 patients underwent microdebrider-assisted inferior turbinoplasty. Two control groups (35 patients each) underwent conventional partial turbinectomy or submucosal electrocautery. Endoscopic and functional studies (active anterior rhinomanometry, saccharin test) were performed before surgery and 2, 4, and 24 weeks after surgery. Pain and other postoperative problems were assessed using analogue scales.

RESULTS

After 2 weeks, MAIT patients, unlike the other patients, showed almost no more mucosal lesions. After 4 weeks, mean saccharin clearance time was 11.1 min in the MAIT group, 15.9 min in the partial turbinectomy group, and 13.7 min in the electrocautery group. When the patients were asked to rate their symptoms on a scale of 0-10, the mean score in the fourth postoperative week was 6.1 in the MAIT group, 7.7 in the partial turbinectomy group, and 7.8 in the electrocautery group. Rhinomanometry showed a mean flow rate increase from 178 ml/s to 574 ml/s after MAIT (401 ml/s after partial turbinectomy, 361 ml/s after electrocautery).

CONCLUSION

Microdebrider-assisted inferior turbinoplasty is a minimally invasive method for reducing inferior turbinate size and maintaining mucosal integrity. It has the advantages of a short healing time, only a mild decrease in mucociliary clearance, only minor postoperative problems, and a good functional outcome.

Effect of turbinate surgery in rhinoseptoplasty on quality-of-life and acoustic rhinometry outcomes: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the role of inferior turbinate reduction during rhinoseptoplasty in quality-of-life outcomes and nasal airway cross-sectional area.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Individuals over 16 years with nasal obstruction, candidates to functional and aesthetics primary rhinoseptoplasty, were evaluated from December 2010 though January 2012 at a tertiary University Hospital, Brazil. Eligible participants were randomly allocated to rhinoseptoplasty with or inferior turbinate reduction through submucosal diathermy.

OUTCOMES

Relative changes ([postop-preop]/preop score) in specific (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation; NOSE) and general quality-of-life instruments (WHOQOL-bref), nasal obstruction visual analogue scale (NO-VAS) and nasal area measurements in acoustic rhinometry. OUTCOMES were blindly assessed 3 months postoperatively. Protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01457638).

RESULTS

50 patients were included, mainly Caucasians with moderate/severe allergic rhinitis symptoms. Mean age was 32 ± 12 yr and 58% were female. Rhinoseptoplasty improved specific and general quality-of-life scores irrespective of turbinate intervention (P < 0.001).There was no difference between subjects submitted or not to inferior turbinate reduction in NOSE score (-75% vs. -73%; P = 0.893); all WHOQOL-bref score domains (P > 0.05), NO-VAS (-88% vs. -81%; P = 0.89) and acoustic rhinometry recordings (P > 0.05).During follow-up less patients in the rhinoplasty with inferior turbinate reduction group were using topical corticosteroids (6[24%] vs. 13[54%]; P = 0.03). Multivariable analyses, adjusting for postoperative topical corticosteroid use and previous nasal fracture, had no effect on these results.

CONCLUSIONS

Turbinate reduction through submucosal diathermy during primary rhinoseptoplasty did not improve short-term general and specific quality-of-life outcomes and acoustic rhinometry recordings. The role of turbinate reduction in sparing chronic corticosteroid use should be confirmed in long-term follow-up studies.

Long-term follow-up of children after submucosal diathermy to the inferior turbinate for rhinitis

BACKGROUND

There is currently poor evidence base to support turbinate surgery in children. Submucosal diathermy (SMD) is a day case procedure offered to children who have refractory rhinitis. There is currently no well-defined population who will benefit from this procedure. The Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI) is a validated questionnaire that can be used to assess benefit following an intervention.

METHODS

In September 2009, questionnaires were sent by post to the parents of 70 children who underwent SMD between 2003 and 2006. If no response was received, an attempt to contact the parents by telephone was made. These questionnaires were then analysed to ascertain benefit scores.

RESULTS

Returned questionnaires were received for 47 children (68%). 70% (33) felt that this had been a worthwhile procedure. Residual nasal symptoms were recorded, of which rhinorrhea was the most frequent (30, 64%), followed by nasal blockage (28, 60%). Of these children, 23 had a positive radio-allergosorbent test (RAST) and 21 were negative. Overall the median GCBI for children receiving SMD was 19.5. This was elevated in the RAST positive group (median score 27) and lower for the RAST negative group (median score 14).

CONCLUSION

This study highlights some benefit to inferior turbinate study in children by using the GCBI. Improved benefit was not demonstrated significantly in older or younger children or in RAST positive or negative children. Further studies, by means of a randomised controlled trial are required to provide a better level of evidence for this procedure.

Comparison of ultrasound turbinate reduction, radiofrequency tissue ablation and submucosal cauterization in inferior turbinate hypertrophy

Chronic nasal obstruction owed to chronic hypertrophic rhinitis is a common cause of nasal airway obstruction. In cases unresponsive to conservative treatment, various surgical techniques are commonly performed, but the issue of the optimal surgical procedure is still controversial. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound treatment of the hypertrophied inferior turbinates, which is a technique recently applied in rhinologic surgery. We aimed, also, to compare this method with the radiofrequency cold coblation turbinate reduction and the traditional submucosal monopolar inferior turbinate cauterization. We studied prospectively 60 patients with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis of nonallergic etiology, who underwent different surgical methods of turbinate reduction, divided into two groups: (1) in 30 patients, inferior turbinate volume reduction using ultrasound procedure on the left side and monopolar diathermy on the right was performed; (2) in 30 patients, radiofrequency coblation technique on the left side and ultrasound turbinate reduction on the right side was undertaken. Subjective evaluation of nasal obstruction and pain was performed using visual analog scales and objective evaluation of the surgical outcome was obtained using active anterior rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry. Examinations were performed preoperatively, and 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery. Both subjective and objective evaluation showed significant postoperative improvement in all cases. The best results were obtained with the ultrasound procedure, and second with the radiofrequency technique. The least improvement was observed in the electrocautery group, although its results did not differ significantly from the radiofrequency group. It may be, thus, concluded that ultrasound turbinate reduction is an effective and safe procedure for the management of chronic hypertrophic rhinitis, in patients failing to respond to medical treatment. Using this method, better results were obtained in decreasing subjective symptoms and nasal obstruction, in comparison with radiofrequency and electrocautery.

Surgical management of adult inferior turbinate hypertrophy: a systematic review of the evidence

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The evidence-based medicine (EBM) schema advocates critical appraisal of the scientific literature for treatment of diseases. The objective of this review was to analyze the role of surgery for symptomatic adult inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) by focusing on the following question: In adults with nasal airway obstruction (NAO) from documented ITH having failed medical therapy, does inferior turbinate surgery improve disease-specific quality of life, symptoms, and/or objective parameters with minimum 6-month follow-up?.

STUDY DESIGN

Evidence-based review.

METHODS

Articles for inclusion were identified by query of appropriate search terms in the PubMed database. The articles were reviewed independently by two authors and assigned an evidence level based on standard EBM guidelines.

RESULTS

The search yielded 514 abstracts for review, retrieved 143 abstracts for full review, and included 96 articles in the report. The majority of the articles were assigned level 4 (75) or level 5 (18) evidence. One report was assigned level 1 and two reports were assigned level 2. Median number of patients reported was 50 (range, 1-533). Subjective assessment parameters were reported in 80 studies. Objective parameters were evaluated in 36 studies, including acoustic rhinometry or rhinomanometry (26) and mucociliary function (8). Overwhelming data supported efficacy of surgery for NAO from ITH with positive results reported in 93 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature provides considerable level 4 and 5 evidence for efficacy of surgery for adult symptomatic ITH. Given the paucity of level 1 and 2 data, future studies should focus on prospective studies with matched control groups for comparison.

Mucosal changes in chronic hypertrophic rhinitis after surgical turbinate reduction

Chronic nasal obstruction owed to chronic hypertrophic rhinitis is one of the most common problems encountered in rhinology. Various forms of conservative therapy have been used, but these are often ineffective and surgical reduction techniques have been successfully applied. However, the issue of postoperative histological changes in the nasal mucosa has not been adequately addressed. The aim of the present study was to comparatively evaluate the effect of the methods of submucosal monopolar diathermy, radiofrequency coblation and ultrasounds on the nasal mucosa. Sixty patients with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis of nonallergic etiology underwent different surgical methods of turbinate reduction, divided into two groups: (1) 30 patients underwent tissue volume reduction of the inferior nasal turbinates using ultrasound procedure on the left side and monopolar diathermy on the right; (2) 30 patients underwent radiofrequency coblation technique on the left side and ultrasound reduction on the right. We studied 20 preoperative specimens of the inferior turbinate mucosa taken randomly from both groups of patients, 5 from each side of each group. Normal nasal mucosal specimens taken from ten healthy persons were used as controls. Specimens of the inferior turbinate were taken after 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery, from the same patients. All specimens were examined by electron microscopy. Preoperative observation revealed degeneration of epithelial cells, loss of cilia, disruption of intercellular connections, edema, nasal mucus overproduction and inflammatory infiltration in chorium. Postoperative observations revealed decrease of intercellular edema, reduction of mucus, overproduction of collagen and degeneration of the epithelium to flattened stratified. Only specimens after use of ultrasounds showed islands with normally organized epithelium of columnar ciliated cells. It may be concluded that epithelial changes owed to chronic hypertrophic rhinitis do not significantly improve postoperatively after turbinate tissue volume reduction. Only in several cases operated with ultrasounds, regeneration of epithelium occurs, resulting to anatomical and functional restoration of the nasal physiology.

Modified Glatzel mirror test reproducibility in the evaluation of nasal patency

The Glatzel Mirror (GM) is used to evaluate nasal patency. Validation studies are not available in the literature. This paper aims to verify the GM test reproducibility and the correlation between the intra-subject condensation area and nasal patency subjective perception.

Methods

This is a prospective study. 25 subjects were evaluated with the GM for five consecutive minutes, every half an hour for 4 hours; every day, beginning in the early afternoon, every Thursday for five consecutive weeks. A visual analogue scale was used to evaluate nasal patency perception in all periods.

Results

The total correlation coefficient (right + left areas) found between the condensation area and the subjective perception was r = 0.04 (p = 0.37). On the left side it was r = 0.08 (p = 0.09) and on the right side r = 0.05 (p = 0.28). The mean unilateral variation coefficient was less than 15% and the total was less than 12%, regardless of the time period interval between test and re-test.

Conclusion

We did not observe any significant correlation between the subjective perception of breathing and the condensation area. Unilateral variability was higher than the total (right + left area) and the test variability was the same between the different time periods of measurements.

A reprodutibilidade do espelho de Glatzel modificado na aferição da permeabilidade nasal

O espelho de Glatzel (EG) é utilizado para a avaliação da permeabilidade nasal. Estudos de validação inexistem na literatura. Este estudo teve por objetivos verificar a reprodutibilidade do EG e a correlação intra-sujeito entre área de condensação e percepção subjetiva de permeabilidade nasal. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo onde 25 sujeitos foram avaliados com o EG por cinco minutos consecutivos; cada meia hora por quatro horas; cada dia no início da tarde, por cinco dias e toda a quinta-feira por cinco semanas consecutivas. Utilizou-se uma escala analógica visual para avaliar a percepção de respiração nos períodos. RESULTADOS: O coeficiente de correlação total (área direita mais esquerda) encontrado entre área de condensação e percepção subjetiva foi de r=0,04 (p=0,37). No lado esquerdo foi de r=0,08 (p=0,09) e no lado direito de r=0,05 (p=0,28). Os coeficientes de variação unilaterais medianos foram menores que 15% e os totais menores que 12%, independente do intervalo de tempo entre teste e re-teste. CONCLUSÃO: Não se evidenciou correlação significativa entre a percepção subjetiva e a área de condensação. A variabilidade unilateral foi maior do que quando considerados os valores totais (direito mais esquerdo) e não houve diferença na variabilidade das medidas de área de condensação nasal nos diferentes momentos do tempo.

Long-term comparison between submucosal cauterization and powered reduction of the inferior turbinates

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the results of powered turbinoplasty and to compare these with submucosal cauterization of the inferior turbinates.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, comparative surgical trial.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with medication-resistant chronic nasal obstruction caused by inferior turbinate hypertrophy were randomized to undergo powered turbinoplasty on one side and submucosal cauterization on the other. For each side, an extensive assessment (symptom scoring, endoscopic scoring, and acoustic rhinometry) was recorded preoperatively and on week 1, week 3, month 3, year 1, and year 5 postoperatively.

RESULTS

Powered turbinoplasty was superior to submucosal cauterization on all aspects of the assessment. A significant difference (P < .05) was noted for postoperative crusting, endoscopical scoring of turbinate size, and acoustic rhinometry measurements of nasal cavity volume and mean area at the level of the nasal valve. In addition, the results of powered turbinoplasty were still apparent on long term follow-up, whereas submucosal cauterization was associated with a recurrence of turbinate hypertrophy.

CONCLUSION

Performing a powered turbinoplasty leads to decreased patient morbidity during the postoperative healing and to a better control of long-term results when compared with submucosal cauterization.

Control of nasal obstruction in perennial allergic rhinitis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Nasal obstruction, the cardinal symptom of persistent (perennial) allergic rhinitis, is one of the most common symptoms encountered in primary care and in specialist clinics. It is difficult to quantify by clinical examination, and, hence, objective assessment of the nasal airway is critical to rhinologic research. Nasal obstruction in persistent allergic rhinitis must be treated the year round, and therefore treatment choices, costs, and compliance all become important public health issues.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many inflammatory and neurogenic mediators released during allergic reactions are able to cause plasma exudation and vasodilatation, with resultant edema and swelling of the nasal mucosa. Recently, technological advancements have made it possible to qualitatively and quantitatively study the nasal airway, providing greater insights into the understanding of physiological fluctuation and pathophysiological manifestations of nasal patency. From recent international guidelines, the management of allergic rhinitis includes combining treatments of the upper and lower airways, by using patient education, allergen avoidance, pharmacological treatment, and specific immunotherapy. Surgery may be needed as an adjunctive intervention. Multiple methods have been introduced to treat turbinate hypertrophy. However, preservation of adequate nasal mucosal function is important, together with long-term results.

SUMMARY

It is important that consensus recommendations for the management of allergic rhinitis be designed and implemented by all levels of medical specialists in order to improve treatment outcomes.