Comparison of radiofrequency tissue volume reduction and submucosal resection with microdebrider in inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy of submucosal temperature-controlled radiofrequency tissue volume reduction (TCRFTVR) and resection with microdebrider (SMRM) in chronic inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, and single-blinded clinical trial.

METHODS: The study group consisted of 30 symptomatic patients who underwent simultaneous TCRFTVR and SMRM for consecutive sides. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and acoustic rhinometry (ARM) were made preoperatively and at 12th week and 6th month postoperatively; saccharine transport time (STT) and ciliary beat frequency (CBF) were performed at 12th week and 6th month postoperatively. The rate of the need for the revision operation was determined between 6 and 12 months period postoperatively.

RESULTS: Significant improvement was achieved in VAS scores and ARM measurements after both procedures, whereas both parameters did not differ significantly between two procedures postoperatively. STT and CBF showed no significant post-treatment variation in comparison of the intergroup measurements. The rates of the need for revision operation were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION: Identical results in objective and subjective parameters were observed for both techniques.