The inferior turbinates are normal anatomical formations located on the lateral wall of each nasal cavity, opposite to the septum.Their role is to regulate the humidity and temperature of the inhaled air, contributing to normal breathing. In some cases, however, their size increases too much, which significantly complicates the flow of air through the nose. This condition is called turbinates’ hypertrophy and is diagnosed by endoscopy of the nose with a flexible or rigid video-endoscope.
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How is inferior turbinates’ hypertrophy treated?
The purpose of this specific treatment is to shrink the volume of the inferior turbinates so as to widen the meatus of the nasal cavity and to restore the normal flow of air within it. The reduction of the turbinates’ size with the use of radio frequencies, Laser or special microdebriders yields very satisfactory results.However, the best possible results are achieved with Endoscopic TurbinoplastyUsing an endoscope and special endoscopic surgery tools, with this method we remove the outer part of the turbinates’ mucous membrane as well as the bone οστό underneath it. This procedure gives us great control to achieve their shrinking to the desired size, while at the same time it is the only method that guarantees a permanent result, unaffected by time.
All the above can be performed in combination with the straightening of a deviated nasal septum or with endoscopic surgery of the sinuses, during the same operation.
What happens after surgery?
After surgery, the patient usually has no packing/gauzes to be removed and most often goes home the same day. The operation is painless and usually little or no pain medication is required. A short course of antibiotics can be given as a precaution.
Will the operation be performed with local or general anesthesia?
Η Endoscopic Turbinoplasty is performed with short general anesthesia as this ensures the absence of pain during the operation and the most favorable surgical conditions to achieve the desired result. Regarding the reduction of the turbinates’ size with the use of radio frequencies or Laserthis is done under general anesthesia or sedation. In any case, it is best to avoid performing any procedure with local anesthesia in the doctor's office as this does not provide the conditions to achieve the best possible result and to effectively treat possible complications such as bleeding.
