Turbinate Reduction with Radio Frequency
of the nasal mucosa
What is Turbinate Reduction with Radio Frequency of the nasal mucosa?
Turbinate Reduction with Radio Frequency (RF) of the nasal mucosa is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing nasal congestion and breathing difficulties caused by enlarged nasal turbinates. The turbinates are structures inside the nose that help humidify and filter the air as it passes through. However, when the turbinates become swollen or enlarged, they can obstruct the nasal passages, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, and snoring.
The Procedure
Here’s an overview of the procedure:
- Nasal Turbinate Reduction:
- Enlarged turbinates are typically reduced in size during this procedure. The goal is to improve airflow through the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms of nasal obstruction.
- The reduction may involve the removal or reshaping of excess tissue from the turbinates. Traditional methods include using a scalpel or scissors to trim the tissue.
- In Turbinate Reduction with Radio Frequency, a different approach is taken. Instead of removing tissue, radiofrequency energy is applied to the nasal mucosa (the lining of the nasal passages) to shrink and tighten the tissue.
- Radio Frequency (RF) Ablation:
- Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive technique that uses energy to create controlled thermal injury to the targeted tissue.
- In the context of turbinate reduction, the RF energy is applied to the nasal mucosa, causing the tissue to contract and reduce in size.
- This helps to decrease the volume of the turbinates without the need for tissue removal, potentially leading to less postoperative discomfort and a quicker recovery.
- Benefits:
- Turbinate Reduction with RF is often performed as an outpatient procedure.
- It is associated with minimal bleeding and a faster recovery compared to traditional surgical techniques.
- By reducing the size of the turbinates, the procedure aims to improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms of nasal congestion.
Treatment
As with any medical procedure, we will undergo a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and all possible underlying causes to determine the best treatment for you. The choice of treatment will depend on your specific circumstances, and alternative options may also be considered based on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms.
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