A radiofrequency vs topical steroid treatment of chronic nasal obstruction: A prospective randomized study of 84 cases

Abstract

Conclusions: Nasal congestion caused by mucosal swelling and conch hypertrophy impairs breathing and causes snoring and headaches. Treatment of conch hypertrophy with radiofrequency (RF) allows reduction of mucosal swelling, minimization of hyperplasia, and decreased mucus production. This treatment provides a clinically significant improvement in snoring, headaches, and mouth breathing. Objective: To compare the efficacy of RF surgery to nasal steroid; each method used separately and both in combination. Methods: This was a consecutive randomized study, which included 84 patients with 3 outpatient visits, where the first visit included a complete medical history, assessment of ENT status, and skin tests. Nasal flow measured with rhinomanometry was done at the first visit and then before and after each treatment. Patients were asked to respond to a questionnaire at the first visit and after each subsequent treatment. Thereafter the variables were analyzed with established statistical methods. Results: Measurement of variables and patient questionnaire responses showed a clear improvement in several symptoms, such as sneezing and headache, and a clinically significant improvement in nasal congestion and snoring.