Bipolar radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction of inferior turbinate: does the number of treatment sessions influence the final outcome?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine if the number of treatment sessions has an influence on the final intermediate term results of submucosal bipolar radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction of the inferior turbinate.

METHODS

One hundred two patients were enrolled in this study prospectively. The procedure was done using the Coblation (Arthrocare Corp., Sunnyvale, CA). The assessment was done using the 10-cm visual analog scale and acoustic rhinometry. Surgical procedures and pre- and postoperative assessments were done at the Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.

RESULTS

Eighty eight percent of our study population achieved final relief of their nasal obstruction, and at least three sessions were needed to maintain the favorable outcome at 1-year follow up.

CONCLUSION

Increasing the number of bipolar radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction treatment sessions was associated with better intermediate-term outcome. This was confirmed using subjective and objective methodology.