A modified technique for inferior turbinate reduction: the integration of coblation technology.

BACKGROUND: Many procedures have been described for the surgical management of inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Coblation is a relatively new technology that uses radiofrequency energy to ablate hypertrophied tissues. The standard method of using this technology has been shown to be effective; however, it only partially relieves symptoms of obstruction. The authors present a modified hybrid technique for the surgical reduction of inferior turbinate hypertrophy using a combination of coblation and turbinate outfracture to maximize the nasal airway patency.

METHODS: A review was performed of operating room video files to evaluate the senior author's (J.L.E.) technique for performing inferior turbinate reduction using the modified coblation and outfracture technique. The videos were edited to present the technique.

RESULTS: The senior author has found this modified hybrid technique to be both efficacious and safe. This Video Plus article presents both the operative technique and postoperative management for cases of inferior turbinate hypertrophy that fail medical management.

CONCLUSION: This modified hybrid technique is the mainstay of the senior author's treatment of inferior turbinate hypertrophy reduction and can be a useful surgical tool to achieve adequate outcomes when dealing with patients who have hypertrophied inferior turbinates that fail medical management.