Radiofrequency tissue reduction for turbinate hypertrophy

Radiofrequency tissue reduction (radiofrequency-assisted inferior turbinoplasty) aims to reduce the size of inferior turbinates that are inflamed because of vasomotor or allergic rhinitis.

Radiofrequency tissue reduction is usually performed using local anaesthesia in an outpatient setting. A radiofrequency probe is inserted submucosally at the anterior end of the inferior turbinate and is advanced to its posterior end. Radiofrequency energy is applied for a number of seconds to the anterior, middle and posterior third of each inferior turbinate, heating the submucosal tissue around the probe and causing coagulation. Small blood vessels responsible for the enlargement of the turbinate are also ablated during the procedure, limiting their ability to swell and expand. The submucosal tissue shrinks during healing, thereby reducing excess tissue volume.