Partial inferior turbinectomy using the microdébrider.

BACKGROUND

A microdébrider was selected to accomplish partial inferior turbinectomy, allowing for controlled and rapid removal of hypertrophic soft tissue while preserving the general turbinate form.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinical outcome, healing, and any adverse consequences from the microdébrider partial turbinectomy procedure.

SETTING

A public hospital in north-central Israel.

DESIGN

A nonrandomized prospective study of 35 adults who were referred for nasal airway surgery, including turbinectomy.

METHODS

All patients underwent bilateral inferior turbinate reduction with the microdébrider, with removal of mucosa from the medial and inferior portions of the inferior turbinates. Detailed follow-up was accomplished at 4 or more months postoperatively, including a visual analogue scale questionnaire and videoendoscopy. For seven patients, pre- and postoperative mucosal biopsies were available to evaluate healing and epithelial regeneration.

RESULTS

Nasal endoscopy showed well-healed turbinate membranes and preservation of the turbinate form, with widening of the inferomedial nasal airway space. Subjective nasal patency improved after surgery, p < .01, and the subjective sense of smell was improved, p < .01, without associated crusting, pain, irritation, sneezing, or dryness. Postoperative biopsies showed subepithelial fibrosis and regenerated epithelium, generally of respiratory differentiation.

CONCLUSION

Inferior turbinate reduction can be accomplished efficiently with the microdébrider device, without undue side effects.

SIGNIFICANCE

Further experience and long-term follow-up with this technique are warranted.