Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation versus Bipolar Electrocautery for the Treatment of Inferior Turbinate XXXX : Comparison of Efficacy and Postoperative Morbidity.

@entity1184 @entity1 @entity4 @entity8021
Introduction   Numerous surgical methods are used to treat nasal obstruction due to inferior turbinate @entity1184 . The primary goal of the therapy is to maximize the nasal airway for as extended a period of time as possible while minimizing therapeutic complications. Objectives   The aim of this study was to assess the effects of radiofrequency thermal ablation (RFTA) and bipolar electrocautery (BEC) on the removal of nasal obstruction in @entity1 with inferior turbinate @entity1184 and on nasal mucociliary clearance (MCC). @entity1 in both groups were also evaluated in terms of postoperative morbidity. Methods   We compared the outcomes of two groups of @entity1 : those treated with RFTA (n   =   23) and those who underwent BEC (n   =   20). Nasal obstruction was graded using a visual analog scale (VAS) and MCC was measured using a @entity8021 clearance test. Both measurements were performed before and 2 months after treatment. Results   Pre- and postoperative VAS scores showed significant improvement for both groups. However, MCC results did not significantly differ between two groups. Neither @entity4 nor crust formation persisted for more than 1   week in any @entity1 . Conclusion   Submucosal cauterization with preservation of the nasal mucosa and periosteum is as effective and safe as RFTA and should be considered when planning inferior turbinate interventions.
