Radiofrequency for Treating Nasal Obstruction

A study has demonstrated that the use of temperature-controlled radiofrequency energy (TCRF) produces significant improvement in the severity and frequency of nasal obstruction with minimal complications, as compared to laser reduction. The study, conducted by Chae-Seo Rhee, M.D., of the National University College of Medicine (Seoul, Korea), was published in the January issue of Laryngoscope.

The study involved 24 patients with nasal obstruction due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Sixteen patients were treated with CRF and eight patients were treated by a laser. Nasal function tests for nasal volume, nasal resistance and olfaction were significantly improved at eight weeks following both procedures. However, only the TCRF treated group showed preservation of mucociliary function after treatment as measured by the saccharine transit time or cilary beat frequency test. No crusting, dryness, or edema were reported in the TCRF group, whereas all subjects treated with the laser had these symptoms, which subsided four weeks later.

The study suggests that TCRF reduces nasal obstruction and may help to preserve the function of the mucosa with minimal complications compared to the laser procedure. The findings support initial studies performed at Stanford University (Palo Alto, CA, USA) and elsewhere. The TCRF treatment, called Somnoplasty, was developed by Somnus Medical Technologies (Sunnyvale, CA, USA; www.somnus.com). It is the only TCRF treatment to reduce and tighten enlarged tissues in the upper airway, such as the tonsils, nasal passage, palate, and base of tongue, states the company. The system has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in treating chronic nasal obstruction, sleep apnea syndrome, and other upper airway problems.

"…this study also supports the importance of helping to preserve the turbinate mucosa, which is important for warming, humidifying, and cleansing inhaled air, as well as preserving the nasal defense mechanism against infective particles such as bacteria and viruses,” said John Schulte, president and CEO of Somnus.



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