Turbinate Surgery in Chronic Nasal Obstruction: Techniques and Outcomes.

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic nasal obstruction is a common symptom in allergic or non-allergic rhinitis and is associated with persistent inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Initial management is medical, and surgery is reserved for refractory cases with functional impact. Objective: To synthesize the evidence on turbinoplasty for chronic nasal obstruction, comparing radiofrequency, microdebrider, and submucosal techniques and their clinical, objective, and safety outcomes. Methodology: Systematic review according to PRISMA 2020 on the PUBMED database from 2015. A total of 264 records were identified, and finally, 13 studies were included for qualitative synthesis. Results: Included were 3 systematic reviews/meta-analyses, 4 comparative trials/prospectives, and 6 observational/technical studies. All techniques showed consistent improvement in VAS/NOSE scores and quality of life, with variability in magnitude and durability. Meta-analyses suggested a potential advantage of the microdebrider over radiofrequency in some outcomes, especially long-term, and prospective follow-up showed greater recurrence with radiofrequency compared to the microdebrider. Discussion: The choice of technique should be individualized, prioritizing mucosal preservation; the heterogeneity of populations and measures limits direct comparisons. Conclusion: Turbinoplasty is effective in refractory obstruction; structured submucosal approaches may offer greater stability, although studies with standardized outcomes and prolonged follow-up are needed.