Radiofrequency coagulation versus liquid paraffin plus antiseptic cream in the treatment of recurrent anterior epistaxis

Abstract

ObjectivesTo evaluate the efficacy of radiofrequency coagulation and to compare it with that of liquid paraffin plus antiseptic cream in the management of recurrent anterior epistaxis. DesignProspective clinical trial. Between February 2011 and July 2012, one hundred consecutive patients with histories of recurrent anterior epistaxis were randomly assigned to receive treatment consisting of either a combination of liquid paraffin plus antiseptic cream (group 1) or radiofrequency coagulation (group 2). SettingBenha University Hospital. Main outcome measuresThe Epistaxis Severity Score; before treatment, at 4, 12weeks, 6 and 12months after treatment, participant’s perception of discomfort during the management and complications. ResultsThe severity score of the 94 patients who had full data at 4weeks after treatment shows no statistically significant differences between the two groups. However, at 12weeks; 85% of the radiofrequency group versus 40% of paraffin-antiseptic group patients had reported no bleeding. At 6months; 74% of the radiofrequency group versus 25% of the paraffin-antiseptic group patients reported no bleeding. At 12months, 70% of the radiofrequency group versus 23% of the paraffin-antiseptic group patients reported no bleeding. Both groups had no complications. The level of pain associated with the procedure was tolerable. Mean duration of the radiofrequency procedure was 14.2min. ConclusionsIt can be concluded that radiofrequency coagulation is a safe, convenient rapid and simple procedure that is associated with a significant improvement in epistaxis severity in cases of recurrent anterior epistaxis. This therapy could be performed in office settings.