Endoscopic Medial Flap Inferior Turbinoplasty versus Bipolar Electrocautery in Management of Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy

Abstract

Background: Turbinate reduction techniques should consistently minimize nasal obstruction without compromising mucosal function or increasing the risk of problems like crusting or bleeding.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of bipolar cauterization against medial flap  inferior turbinoplasty in terms of preand post-operative outcomes and to assess the outcome of turbinate reduction and the effect on  mucociliary clearance.

Patients and methods: This nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted on 24 patients with nasal obstruction, Group (1): included 12 patients underwent endoscopic medial flap inferior turbinoplasty. Group (2): included 12 patients underwent  bipolar cauterization for reduction of the inferior turbinate.

Results: Operation time was significantly longer in group I (53.33±7.48 min)  than Group II (32.08±4.50 min). Postoperative crusting and burning sensation were significantly better in group I compared to group II  (p<0.05).

Conclusions: One safe and effective method to reduce the size of the turbinates is with a medial flap inferior tuboplasty. There  was little to no danger of complications after this technically simple operation, and patients reported lasting alleviation from their  obstructive problems.