Nasal Turbinate Surgery
It must be underlined that, apart from any method of surgical reduction, it is absolutely essential that the underlying pathological condition, which is Chronic Rhinitis, should be appropriately investigated and treated. This combined treatment (medical and surgical) is the only way to a satisfactory, long lasting favourable result.
Laser Turbinoplasty
Various Lasers have been used for many years for the reduction of nasal turbinates. The Laser beam causes controlled thermal effect to the tissues, and the scarring, which follows, shrink the hypertrophied turbinate. Although our Team has extensive experience with the use of Lasers, we do not use them anymore. We feel that, especially in the case of superficial application (CO2 Laser), the thermal damage to the functional mucosa is not in accordance with the modern idea of minimally invasive surgery.
Radiofrequency Turbinoplasty
Radiofrequencies work with radiowaves, similar to those of microwave ovens. A special electrode is inserted in the turbinate and it produces a thermal effect, similar to that produced by the Laser. Most important advantages of radiofrequency turbinectomy are low cost, safety, and ease of application, even at an outpatient setting under local anaesthesia. The procedure can be repeated, if needed.
Microdebrider Turbinoplasty
Submucosal Turbinoplasty
When the turbinate bone is large, soft tissue removal or debulking, as in previously discussed methods, is not enough for a satisfactory result. In these cases, submucosal bone removal is combined with excision of excess soft tissue with this endoscopic operation, which is done under general anaesthesia. The result is immediately obvious. No packs are used.
