Author(s)
Chien Yu Huang, MD
En-Ying Wang
Jyun-Yi Liao, MD
Affiliation(s)
1. Department of Otolaryngology, Chiayi Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
2. Department of Otolaryngology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Taiwan
Abstract:
Background: To assess the safety and effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation of the posterior inferior turbinates targeting the intraturbinate posterior nasal nerve (RAPN) area for treating chronic rhinitis.
Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study. Patients with a 24-hour reflective Total Nasal Symptom Score (rTNSS) of 4 or higher, experiencing chronic rhinitis symptoms for at least 6 months that were refractory to medical treatment and undergoing RAPN, were enrolled. Patient-reported outcome measures included the rTNSS and the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE). The primary endpoint was the responder rate between 1 and 12 months, defined as a 30% or greater improvement in rTNSS from baseline. Changes in rTNSS and NOSE scores were also recorded.
Results: A total of 97 patients were reviewed (62 male and 35 female) with a mean age of 37.1±9.6 years. Patients had a mean baseline rTNSS of 6.6 (95% CI, 6.2-7.0) and a NOSE score of 58.8 (95% CI, 54.6-63.0). At 12 months, the responder rate ranged from 87.6% (95% CI, 81.0%-94.3%) at 1 month to 90% (95% CI, 81.9%-97.8%), with significant reductions in rTNSS (mean decrease of -4.3 [95% CI, -4.9 to -3.7]) and NOSE (mean decrease of -45.3 [95% CI, -52.1 to -38.4]). The mean improvements of each subscore in rTNSS(congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal itching) were 58% to 76% compared to baseline. Four procedure-related adverse events were reported, and all resolved.
Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation of the posterior inferior turbinates provides significant relief of all chronic rhinitis symptoms with minimal adverse events.