Turbinoplasty (reduction of nasal turbinates)
Content
Description
Turbinoplasty is a surgical procedure that adjusts (reduces) the nasal turbinates.
There are 3 nasal turbinates in the nasal cavity (concha nasalis superior, media, inferior).
Their role is to clean and warm the air we breathe before it reaches the lungs.
Facts
- Local, more often general anesthesia
- Hospitalization 1 - 3 days
- Procedure lasts 60 min
- Healing 7 -14 days
Nasal turbinate reduction is performed in cases where the turbinate size causes difficulties:
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Allergic rhinitis
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
There are several surgical techniques for adjusting the nasal turbinate:
- Classical approach with reduction (reduction) of the nasal turbinate
- Laser turbinoplasty - a mini-invasive procedure using a laser
- Radiofrequency turbinoplasty (RFITT) - the use of a needle emitting radiofrequency current (the mucosa shrinks)
The choice of surgical technique depends on the degree of hypertrophy of the nasal turbinate. In case of large enlargement, more extensive procedures are required (e.g., classical approach using a scalpel).
After the procedure, swelling of the mucous membrane with a feeling of nasal congestion persists (1 - 2 weeks), scabs (crusts) may form and the nasal secretion may be stained with blood.
It is recommended to rinse the nose with saline solution and observe physical restraint.
