Cefalea rinogénica causada por mucopiocele en concha bullosa, un origen infrecuente. Reporte de caso / Rhinogenic headache caused by concha bullosa mucopyocele, an unusual origin. Case Report

Introducción: la cefalea rinogénica es secundaria al contacto permanente de la mucosa nasal y puede ser secundario a concha bullosa, si se infecta puede ser mucocele o mucopiocele. Caso clínico: paciente de 34 años con cefalea hemicraneal izquierda, dolor periocular ipsilateral, congestión y rinorrea hialina con cambios en consistencia y coloración del moco. En la tomografía computarizada (TAC) de senos paranasales (SPN) desviación septal derecha por concha bullosa izquierda, ocupación de líquido. Se sospecho mucocele y cefalea rinogénica secundaria, prueba de lidocaína positiva. Se detecto por cultivo, Eikenella corrodens. Manejo con antibiótico y posterior resolución de patología. Conclusiones: debe incluirse en el diagnóstico diferencial de cefalea y concha bullosa, realizarse endoscopia nasal y TAC de SPN. El manejo quirúrgico ha demostrado reducir la intensidad y la frecuencia de la cefalea a corto y largo plazo, y es exitoso si hay test de lidocaína positivo.

Introduction: rhinogenic headache is secondary to permanent contact with the nasal mucosa and may be secondary to concha bullosa, if infected it may be mucocele or mucopiocele. Clinical case: 34-year-old patient with left hemicranial headache, ipsilateral periocular pain, congestion, and hyaline rhinorrhea with changes in consistency and coloration of the mucus. In the computed tomography (CT) of the paranasal sinuses (SPN) right septal deviation due to left concha bullosa, fluid occupation. Mucocele and secondary rhinogenic headache were suspected, lidocaine test positive. Eikenella corrodens was detected by culture. Management with antibiotics and subsequent resolution of pathology. Conclusions: nasal endoscopy and SPN CT should be included in the differential diagnosis of headache and concha bullosa. Surgical management has been shown to reduce headache intensity and frequency in the short and long term, and is successful if there is a positive lidocaine test.

Incidental finding of bullous concha by cone beam computed tomography / Hallazgo incidental de concha bullosa por tomografía computarizada de haz cónico

Abstract This study aimed to describe the imaging aspects of a concha bullosa discovered incidentally by means of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. A female patient underwent a CBCT exam, and a bilateral extensive pneumatization of the middle concha was verified, presenting a larger dimension of the right side and a deviated septum. The patient reported nasal obstruction and loss of smell. The CBCT for covering the maxillofacial region allowed the discovery of this incidental finding, allowing the patient to be referred for appropriate treatment.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo describir los aspectos imaginológicos de una concha bullosa hallada incidentalmente por medio de imágenes de tomografía computarizada de haz cónico (TCHC). Una paciente de sexo femenino fue sometida a examen de TCHC y se verificó una neumatización extensa bilateral de la concha media, presentando una mayor dimensión del lado derecho, asi como desvío del tabique. El paciente refirió obstrucción nasal y pérdida del olfato. La TCHC de la región maxilofacial permitió localizar este hallazgo incidental, permitiendo derivar al paciente para el tratamiento adecuado.

Inferior Turbinate Reduction during Rhinoplasty: Is There Any Effect on Rhinitis Symptoms?

Abstract Introduction Inferior turbinate surgery is often performed concomitantly with rhinoseptoplasty. As inferior turbinates play a major role in allergic rhinitis, it seems reasonable to suggest that inferior turbinate surgery reduces allergy. Objective To assess the impact of nasal turbinate surgery on non-obstructive allergic symptoms (nasal discharge, sneezing, pruritus, and allergic conjunctivitis) and on the use of allergic medication in patients with allergic rhinitis undergoing rhinoseptoplasty. Methods Secondary analysis of aggregated data from two randomized controlled trials. Participants with allergic rhinitis aged 2: 16 years were recruited. Data from two groups were analyzed: patients with rhinoseptoplasty and concomitant turbinate reduction (intervention group) and patients with rhinoseptoplasty only (control group). The 90-day postoperative frequency of non-obstructive allergic symptoms and of nasal steroid and oral antihistamine use were analyzed. Results A total of 100 patients were studied. The groups were similar in terms of allergic symptom intensity and mean age. The frequency of non-obstructive allergic symptoms decreased 90 days postoperative in both groups (p < 0.01). There was no difference between the groups in the frequency of non-obstructive allergic symptoms at 90 days (p = 0.835). Topical nasal steroid and oral histamine antagonist use decreased in the intervention group at 90 days (p < 0.05). Conclusions Ninety days after the surgery, turbinate reduction performed in association with rhinoseptoplasty did not reduce the frequency of non-obstructive allergic symptoms more than rhinoplasty alone. However, the observed decrease in nasal steroid and oral antihistamine use suggests an impact of turbinate reduction on medication use in patients with allergic rhinitis undergoing rhinoseptoplasty. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov database (NCT01457638 and NCT02231216).

Does the reduction of inferior turbinate affect lower airway functions? / A redução da concha nasal inferior afeta as funções das vias aéreas inferiores?

Abstract Introduction: Although the nose and lungs are separate organs, numerous studies have reported that the entire respiratory system can be considered as a single anatomical and functional unit. The upper and lower airways affect each other either directly or through reflex mechanisms. Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of the radiofrequency ablation of persistent inferior turbinate hypertrophy on nasal and pulmonary function. Methods: Twenty-seven patients with bilateral persistent inferior turbinate hypertrophy without septal deviation were included in this study. All of the patients were evaluated using anterior rhinoscopy, nasal endoscopy, acoustic rhinometry, a visual analogue scale, and flow-sensitive spirometry on the day before and 4 months after the radiofrequency ablation procedure. Results: The post-ablation measurements revealed that the inferior turbinate ablation caused an increase in the mean cross-sectional area and volume of the nose, as well as in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s, forced vital capacity, and peak expiratory flow of the patients. These differences between the pre- and post-ablation results were statistically significant. The post-ablation visual analogue scale scores were lower when compared with the pre-ablation scores, and this difference was also statistically significant. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the widening of the nasal passage after the reduction of the inferior turbinate size had a favorable effect on the pulmonary function tests.

Resumo Introdução: Embora o nariz e os pulmões sejam órgãos separados, numerosos estudos relataram que todo o sistema respiratório pode ser considerado como uma única unidade anatômica e funcional. As vias aéreas superiores e inferiores afetam uma à outra diretamente ou através de mecanismos reflexos. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da ablação por radiofrequência em conchas nasais inferiores com hipertrofia persistente sobre a função nasal e pulmonar. Método: Foram incluídos neste estudo 27 pacientes com hipertrofia persistente bilateral de conchas inferiores sem desvio septal. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados com rinoscopia anterior, endoscopia nasal, rinometria acústica, escala visual analógica e espirometria sensível ao fluxo no dia anterior e quatro meses após o procedimento de ablação por radiofrequência. Resultados: As medidas pós-ablação demonstraram que a ablação das conchas nasais inferiores resultou em um aumento da área transversal média e do volume do nariz, bem como do volume expiratório forçado em um segundo, da capacidade vital forçada e do fluxo expiratório máximo dos pacientes. Essas diferenças entre os resultados pré e pós-ablação foram estatisticamente significantes. Os escores da escala visual analógica pós-ablação foram menores quando comparados com os escores pré-ablação e essa diferença também foi estatisticamente significante. Conclusão: O alargamento da passagem nasal após a redução do tamanho das conchas nasais inferiores teve efeito favorável nos testes de função pulmonar.

Inferior turbinate outfracture for successful nasotracheal intubation in a patient undergoing maxillofacial surgery: case report

An enlarged inferior turbinate is a predisposing factor for difficult nasotracheal intubation. We describe a case of successful nasotracheal intubation by induced outfracture of the inferior turbinate during maxillofacial surgery, and discuss the importance of adequate airway evaluation and anesthetic management for successful nasal intubation.

Disease-specific quality of life after septoplasty and bilateral inferior turbinate outfracture in patients with nasal obstruction / Qualidade de vida específica da doença após septoplastia e fratura bilateral de concha inferior em pacientes com obstrução nasal

Abstract Introduction: Septal deviations might cause nasal obstruction and negative impact on the quality of life of individuals. The efficacy of septoplasty for treatment of septal deviation and the predictors of satisfactory surgical outcomes remain controversial. Technical variability, heterogeneity of research samples and absence of a solid tool for clinical evaluation are the main hindrances to the establishment of reliable statistical data regarding the procedure. Objective: To evaluate the clinical improvements in the disease-specific quality-of-life between patients submitted to septoplasty with bilateral outfracture of the inferior turbinate under sedation and local anesthesia in a tertiary hospital and to assess possible clinical-epidemiological variables associated with functional outcome. Methods: Fifty-two patients consecutively submitted to septoplasty with bilateral outfracture of the inferior turbinate for treatment of nasal obstruction filled in forms regarding clinical and epidemiological information during enrollment and had their symptom objectively quantified using the Nose Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale preoperatively and one and three months after the procedure. Statistical analysis aimed to determine overall and stratified surgical outcomes and to investigate correlations between the clinical-epidemiological variables with the scores obtained. Results: Statistically significant improvement in the preoperative NOSE questionnaire compared to the scores obtained three months after surgery was demonstrated (p < 0.001, T-Wilcoxon), with strong correlation between the preoperative score and the postoperative improvement during this period (r = −0.614, p < 0.001, Spearman). After one month, patients reached in average 87.15% of the result obtained at the study termination. Smokers and patients with rhinitis and/or pulmonary comorbidity showed increased average preoperative NOSE scores, although without statistical significance (p > 0.05). Gender, age, history of rhinitis and presence of pulmonary comorbidity did not influence significantly surgical outcomes (p > 0.05). Smokers presented greater reduction in NOSE scores during the study (p = 0.043, U-Mann-Whitney). Conclusion: Septoplasty with bilateral outfracture of the inferior turbinate has proven to significantly improve disease-specific quality-of-life and this favorable outcome seems to occur precociously.

Resumo Introdução: Os desvios septais podem causar obstrução nasal e impacto negativo na qualidade de vida dos indivíduos. A eficácia da septoplastia para o tratamento do desvio septal e os preditores de resultados cirúrgicos satisfatórios continuam controversos. A variabilidade técnica, a heterogeneidade das amostras de estudo e a ausência de uma ferramenta sólida para avaliação clínica são os principais obstáculos ao estabelecimento de dados estatísticos confiáveis sobre o procedimento. Objetivo: Avaliar a melhora clínica na qualidade de vida específica da doença entre pacientes submetidos a septoplastia e fratura bilateral da concha inferior sob sedação e anestesia local em um hospital terciário e possíveis variáveis clínico-epidemiológicas associadas ao desfecho funcional. Método: Cinquenta e dois pacientes consecutivamente submetidos a septoplastia e fratura bilateral da concha inferior para o tratamento da obstrução nasal preencheram formulários com informações clínicas e epidemiológicas durante a inclusão no estudo e tiveram seus sintomas quantificados objetivamente utilizando a escala de Avaliação de Sintomas de Obstrução Nasal (Nose Obstruction Symptom Evaluation - NOSE) no pré-operatório e um e três meses após o procedimento. A análise estatística objetivou determinar resultados cirúrgicos globais e estratificados e investigar correlações entre as variáveis clínico-epidemiológicas e os escores obtidos. Resultados: Foi demonstrada uma melhora estatisticamente significativa nos escores obtidos no questionário NOSE três meses após a cirurgia (p < 0,001, T-Wilcoxon), quando comparado com os escores obtidos no pré-operatório, com uma forte correlação entre o escore pré-operatório e a melhora pós-operatória durante esse período (r = -0,614, p < 0,001, Spearman). Após um mês, os pacientes atingiram em média 87,15% do resultado obtido ao término do estudo. Fumantes e pacientes com rinite e/ou comorbidade pulmonar apresentaram valores médios pré-operatórios do escore NOSE aumentados, embora sem significância estatística (p > 0,05). Sexo, idade, história de rinite e presença de comorbidade pulmonar não influenciaram significativamente os resultados cirúrgicos (p > 0,05). Os fumantes apresentaram maior redução nos escores de NOSE (p = 0,043, U-Mann-Whitney). Conclusão: A septoplastia e a fratura bilateral da concha inferior demonstraram melhorar significativamente a qualidade de vida específica da doença e este resultado favorável parece ocorrer de forma precoce.

Anatomical Variations of the Middle Turbinate Concha Bullosa and its Relationship with Chronic Sinusitis: A Prospective Radiologic Study

Abstract Introduction A pneumatized turbinate, also called concha bullosa, is a normal anatomical variant of the paranasal sinus region. Depending on the site of pneumatization, the concha is classified into extensive, bulbous or lamellar type. The middle turbinate concha bullosa has been implicated as a possible etiological factor in chronic sinusitis. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the anatomical variations of the concha bullosa, based on paranasal sinus imaging, and its possible association with sinusitis. Methods This prospective descriptive study was performed at the Department of ENT and Head Neck Surgery over a period of one year, from 2016 to 2017. We studied the computed tomography scans of the nose and paranasal sinuses- in axial, coronal and sagittal planes-of patients who had symptoms of nasal obstruction, or headache and features of chronic sinusitis. Results Out of the 202 scans studied, the prevalence of concha bullosa was 31.7%. The concha was bilateral in 35 (54.7%) patients and unilateral in 29 (45.3%) patients. Out of 99 conchae, 54 were on the right side and 45 were on left side. Ipsilateral sinusitiswas found in 40.4% of the sides in the scans of subjectswith concha. There was no statistically significant association between any type of middle turbinate concha with sinusitis, but sinusitis was more predominant with the extensive type of concha (p > 0.05). Conclusion Multiple air cells, mucocele, pyocele and inflammatory mucosal thickenings in the concha are relatively rare. Detailed knowledge of anatomic variations of the concha bullosa is imperative for the radiologists and the operating surgeons.

The Middle Turbinate Resection and Its Repercussion in Olfaction with the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT)

Abstract Introduction Nasal obstruction is a common complaint, and, for some, the middle turbinate resection is still a controversial issue among the surgical options due to the possibility of deleterious effects on olfaction. The University of Pennsylvania smell identification test (UPSIT) is considered the gold standard of smell identification tests, but data about it is still incipient in Brazil. Objective To evaluate if the middle turbinectomy has any repercussion on the sense of olfaction by using the UPSIT as an assessment tool. Methods A prospective study performed between 2013 and 2015 with 27 patients who were treated with middle turbinectomy by the same surgeon and tested with the UPSIT pre- and post-surgery, with a minimum interval of 3 months. Results Twenty-five patients completed the study. The mean age was 27.9 years. There was no statistical correlation betweenmiddle turbinectomy and the UPSIT score, or between gender and the UPSIT score. Conclusion There was no clinical repercussion on olfaction from partial middle turbinectomy.

Therapeutic Potential of Human Turbinate-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Experimental Acute Ischemic Stroke / 대한배뇨장애요실금학회지

PURPOSE: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated great promises for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Previously, we identified a new source of MSCs located in the inferior turbinate. We investigated therapeutic potentials of human turbinate- derived mesenchymal stem cells (hTMSCs) in ischemic stroke. METHODS: Ischemic stroke was induced by the intraluminal occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCAo) for 50 minutes in rats. At one day after MCAo, hTMSCs, adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AdMSCs), or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were transplanted into the striatum. Functional recovery was assessed by repeating behavioral tests including modified neurologic severity score and corner test. At 14 days after MCAo, brains were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for measuring infarct volume. The survival of grafted MSCs was evaluated by immunohistochemistry to human nuclei (hNU). Immunohistochemistry with anti-doublecortin (anti-DCX) was performed to assess hippocampal neurogenesis. RESULTS: Transplantation of hTMSCs following MCAo showed improvements of neurologic function, which was comparable with that of AdMSCs. H&E staining showed no difference in infarct volume among 3 groups. Regarding the survival of grafted MSCs, the number of hNU-expressing cells was not different between hTMSCs- and AdMSCs-treated groups. Finally, hTMSCs increased the number of subgranular DCX-positive cells compared to PBS-treated controls, without affecting hilar ectopic migration of newborn neurons. CONCLUSIONS: hTMSCs could improve functional recovery following ischemic stroke, of which efficacy was similar to AdMSCs. Although hTMSCs showed comparable infarct size and survival of grafted MSCs, transplantation of hTMSCs could upregulate subgranular neurogenesis with no impact on ectopically migrating newborn neurons.

Computed Tomography Measurement of Inferior Turbinate in Asymptomatic Adult

Abstract Introduction The inferior turbinate (IT) is the most susceptible turbinate to enlargement causing nasal obstruction. The common belief ascribes most of the enlargement of the IT to mucosal elements. Objective This study aimed to investigate the detailed computed tomography (CT) measurement of the IT in asymptomatic adult by determining the thickness of both the non-bony (mucosa) and bony parts and their relation to nasal air space in different related areas of the nose. Methods We included in the study paranasal CT scans of 108 individuals (216 IT) that had no paranasal pathology. We acquired axial images with multiplanar reformates to obtain delicate details in coronal and sagittal planes for all subjects. We took separate measurements of the thickness of themedialmucosa, bones, and lateralmucosa of the IT on the anterior and posterior portions of ITs. We also measured the air space of the nasal cavity between the septum and IT anteriorly and posteriorly. Results The difference in the air space between nasal septum, anterior and posterior ends of IT was extremely statistically significant (P < 0.0001). The thickness of the medial mucosa was extremely significantly more than the lateral mucosa width (P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in length of IT at both sides (p = 0.5781). Conclusion The detailed CT measurement of the IT in normal adult is an easy and novel measurement. This study lays the foundation for CT measurement of IT for further work that can describe changes in IT measures after turbinate surgery.

Analysis of inferior turbinate in patients with deviated nasal septum by using computed tomography / 中国耳鼻咽喉头颈外科

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationship between the degree of nasal septum deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy with the CT. METHODS The paranasal sinus CTs of 98 cases with septum deviation were evaluated. Inferior turbinate on the deviated side of the nasal septum was considered as the control group and the inferior turbinate on the other side was taken as the study group in the same patient. The septal deviation angle, thickness of the bone, medial mucosa and lateral mucosa of the inferior turbinate were measured. RESULTS The thickness of the bone, medial mucosa and lateral mucosa of the inferior turbinate were statistically different between the study group and the control group(P0.05), but the value of correlation coefficents revealed the inferior turbinate bone correlated with the deviation angle most, followed by medial and lateral mucosal thickness. CONCLUSION The hypertrophy of inferior turbinate in patients with nasal septum deviation is not only caused by mucosal hypertrophy, but also by hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate bone. The preoperative CT before septoplasty can be helpful to choose the surgical methods during the operation.

Evaluation of preoperative and postoperative structure, function, symptom between two different operations in patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy / 中国耳鼻咽喉头颈外科

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical outcome of submucosal inferior turbinectomy and outfracture surgery of inferior turbinates. METHODS All patients receiving two different operations were measured by acoustic rhinometry and questionnaire of QOL at preoperative 1 week and postoperative 12 months, seperately. RESULTS Forty-seven patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy were enrolled in this study. Evaluation of SNOT-20 discovered both surgeries could improve patients' QOL with similar outcome. Preoperative '5 important items' in patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy were 'lack of a good night's sleep', 'need to blow nose', 'thick nasal discharge', 'fatigue' and 'dizziness'. Postperative '5 important items' were 'postnasal discharge', 'runny nose', 'sneezing', 'reduced concentration' and 'reduced productivity'. Both surgeries could make acoustic rhinometry parameters change obviously, such as minimal cross-sectional area, 0-5 cm nasal volume(NV) and 2-5 cm NV. Furthermore, submucosal inferior turbinectomy produced more volume in nasal cavity than outfacture surgery, (7.28±2.01)cm3 vs (6.01±1.22)cm3, (5.99±1.87)cm3 vs (4.23±1.08)cm3(P<0.05), seperately. There was no correlation between the data of SNOT-20 and acoustic rhinometry. CONCLUSION We recommend outfracture surgery of inferior turbinate as the preferred surgical choice for patients with mild inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

The Efficacy of Coblator in Turbinoplasty

BACKGROUND: Turbinate hypertrophy is one of the common causes of chronic nasal obstruction. In principle, therapeutic guidelines recommend medical treatment. Failure to treat turbinate thickening despite drug therapy may indicate the need for surgery. The main aim of this study was to determine the effect of radiofrequency surgery, among various other surgical procedures, on people with both nasal septal deviation and turbinate hypertrophy. METHODS: Among people with nasal deviation who visited the subject hospital between July 2008 to July 2014, 21 people with nasal septal deviation and severe turbinate hypertrophy before their surgery had undergone septoplasty with turbinoplasty using radiofrequency combined with septoplasty. The degree of the turbinate's hypertrophy was appraised in all the patients before and after the surgery using the rhinoscopy, and acoustic rhinometry was objectively carried out. The subjective effect of the turbinoplasty using radiofrequency was explored through the visual analog scale (VAS) score. RESULTS: The degree of contraction of the nasal mucosa after the rhinoscopy changed from Grades 3 and 4 (100%) to Grades 1 and 2 (95.2%) and Grades 3 (4.8%). The minimal cross-sectional area significantly increased from 0.44±0.07 to 0.70±0.07 cm² (p<0.05). The nasal cavity volume increased from 4.79±0.49 to 6.76±0.55 cm² (p<0.05). The subjective symptoms evaluated with VAS score a year after the surgery significantly improved (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Turbinoplasty using Coblator with septoplasty is an effective treatment method because it expands nasal cavity, has a low incidence of complications, subjectively improves symptoms, and has short treatment duration.

Surgical Treatment of Rhinogenic Contact Point Headache: An Experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract Introduction Even in the absence of inflammatory disease, facial pain often results from pressure of two opposing nasal mucosa surfaces. Objectives The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of surgical treatment of contact point headache. Methods Our study enrolled patients with unilateral facial pain and without nasal/ paranasal sinus disease. We confirmed the presence of mucosal contact by nasal endoscopy and by computed tomography. Forty-two subjects with the three most common anatomical variations underwent complete evaluation: 17 with concha bullosa (CB), 11 with septal deviation (SD), and 14 with septal spur (SS). All participants were treated by topical corticosteroid, adrenomimetic, and antihistamine. The patients without improvement were treated surgically. We assessed the severity of pain using a Visual Analogue Score (VAS) before surgical treatment and one, six, twelve, and twenty-four months after. Results The patients with SS had more severe facial pain in comparison with patients with CB (p=0.049) and SD (p=0.000). The subjects with CB had higher degree of facial pain than the ones with SD (p=0.001). After an unsuccessful medical treatment and surgical removal of mucosal contacts, the decrease of headache severity was more intense in patients with CB and SS (p=0.000) than in the patients with SD (p=0.01). Conclusion Our results suggest that topical medications have no effects and that surgical removal of mucosal contacts could be effective in the treatment of contact point headache. The results of surgical treatment were better in cases of facial pain caused by SS and CB, than in those caused by SD.

Comparison of turbinoplasty surgery efficacy in patients with and without allergic rhinitis / Comparação da eficácia da turbinoplastia em pacientes com e sem rinite alérgica

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Turbinoplasty is a procedure that aims to reduce the size of the inferior turbinate through exuberant bone removal with high mucosal preservation. The procedure is recommended for patients with or without allergic rhinitis and those showing irreversible hypertrophy of inferior turbinates. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of inferior turbinoplasty for obstructive and non-obstructive symptoms in patients with or without allergic rhinitis. METHODS: Prospective study with 57 patients who underwent inferior turbinoplasty. They were evaluated for nasal obstruction, snoring, facial pressure, smell alterations, sneezing, nasal itching and runny nose symptoms, surgery time, and intraoperative bleeding. The last evaluation took place three months after surgery. RESULTS: Thirty-nine patients with allergic rhinitis and 18 without were assessed. Ninety days after surgery, 94.7% of patients showed degrees IV and V of breathing improvement; 89.5% showed moderate or complete improvement in snoring; all patients showed smell improvement (only one showed moderate improvement; all the others had full improvement); 95.5% experienced complete facial pressure improvement; and 89.7% showed moderate to complete improvement in nasal itching and runny nose symptoms, as well as in sneezing. CONCLUSION: The efficacy of inferior turbinoplasty was confirmed not only for obstructive symptoms, but also for non-obstructive symptoms in patients with and without allergic rhinitis.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A turbinoplastia é procedimento que visa a redução da concha inferior, à custa da remoção óssea exuberante e maior preservação da mucosa. É indicada para pacientes com e sem rinite alérgica, com hipertrofia irreversível das conchas inferiores. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia da cirurgia de turbinoplastia inferior nos sintomas obstrutivos e não obstrutivos em pacientes com e sem rinite alérgica. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo com 57 pacientes submetidos a turbinoplastia inferior. Foram avaliados quanto à obstrução nasal, roncos, pressão facial, alterações no olfato, espirros, prurido nasal e coriza, tempo de cirurgia e sangramento intraoperatório. A última avaliação foi com 3 meses de operação. RESULTADOS: 39 pacientes com rinite alérgica e 18 sem. Com 90 dias de operação, 94,7% dos pacientes apresentaram graus IV e V de melhora na respiração; 89,5% apresentaram melhora moderada ou total dos roncos; todos os pacientes tiveram melhora no olfato (apenas 1 moderada, os demais melhora total); 95,5% obtiveram melhora total da pressão facial e 89,7% obtiveram melhora moderada ou total em prurido nasal, espirros e coriza. CONCLUSÃO: Comprovou-se a eficácia da cirurgia de turbinoplastia inferior não só nos sintomas obstrutivos, mas também nos sintomas não obstrutivos tanto em pacientes com ou sem rinite alérgica.

Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation versus Bipolar Electrocautery for the Treatment of Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy: Comparison of Efficacy and Postoperative Morbidity

Introduction Numerous surgical methods are used to treat nasal obstruction due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. The primary goal of the therapy is to maximize the nasal airway for as extended a period of time as possible while minimizing therapeutic complications. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the effects of radiofrequency thermal ablation (RFTA) and bipolar electrocautery (BEC) on the removal of nasal obstruction in patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy and on nasal mucociliary clearance (MCC). Patients in both groups were also evaluated in terms of postoperative morbidity. Methods We compared the outcomes of two groups of patients: those treated with RFTA (n = 23) and those who underwent BEC (n = 20). Nasal obstruction was graded using a visual analog scale (VAS) and MCC was measured using a saccharin clearance test. Both measurements were performed before and 2 months after treatment. Results Pre- and postoperative VAS scores showed significant improvement for both groups. However, MCC results did not significantly differ between two groups. Neither edema nor crust formation persisted for more than 1 week in any patients. Conclusion Submucosal cauterization with preservation of the nasal mucosa and periosteum is as effective and safe as RFTA and should be considered when planning inferior turbinate interventions.

Cone-beam computed tomography analysis of prevalence of nasal septum deviation and its relationship with the presence of middle concha bullosa / Avaliação da prevalência e relação entre o desvio de septo nasal e a presença de concha média bolhosa por meio de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico

Objetivo: Este estudo teve com objetivo analisar a prevalência do desvio do septo nasal e da presença de concha nasal média bolhosa e estudar a possível relação entre estes por meio de imagens por tomografia computadorizada de feixes cônicos (TCFC). Material e Métodos: Foram selecionados 118 exames de TCFC de arquivo, previamente adquiridos por indicações diversas para odontologia. Todos os exames foram realizados em tomógrafo i-CAT Next Generation (imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA, EUA) com o mesmo protocolo, tendo o FOV (Field of View) abrangendo o terço médio e inferior da face. Todas as imagens foram avaliadas no software especifico do sistema por 01 avaliador devidamente treinado. O desvio de septo nasal, a concha nasal média bolhosa e demais dados foram tabulados e realizada a análise descritiva dos mesmos. O teste de McNemar foi aplicado para se estudar a possível relação entre os mesmos. Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que, nos casos em que não ocorria o desvio de septo nasal, 73,5% destes não apresentaram e 26,5% destes apresentaram a concha média bolhosa. Considerando-se apenas os casos que apresentaram o desvio de septo nasal para um dos lados, a proporção que não apresentou a concha média bolhosa para o mesmo lado foi de 77,1% e a que apresentou também a concha média bolhosa para o mesmo lado foi de 22,9%. Conclusão: Concluiu-se que não houve relação (p = 0,568) entre a presença das duas variáveis analisadas na pesquisa – desvio de septo nasal e presença de concha média bolhosa.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of nasal septum deviation and the presence of middle nasal concha bullosa, as well as to study the possible relationship between these findings by means of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Material and Methods: One hundred and eighteen CBCT exams were selected from a file previously acquired for diverse reasons in dentistry. All images were obtained with CT i-CAT Next Generation (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA, USA) with the same protocol, and the field of view (FOV) covered the middle and lower third of the face. All images were evaluated in the specific software system by one trained evaluator. The deviated septum, nasal concha bullosa, and other data were tabulated and a descriptive analysis was performed. The McNemar test was used to study the possible relationship between them. Results: The results indicated that, in cases without nasal septum deviation, 26.5% and 73.5% were associated or not to the presence of middle concha bullosa, respectively. Considering patients with nasal septum deviation on one side only, the proportions of 22.9% and 77.1% were associated or not to middle concha bullosa in the same direction, respectively. Conclusion: Thus, it was concluded there was no relationship (p = 0.568) between nasal septum deviation and the presence of middle concha bullosa.

Turbinoplastia endoscópica del cornete inferior para el tratamiento de la rinitis crónica hipertrófica no infecciosa: serie de casos / Endoscopic turbinoplasty of the inferior turbinate for the treatment of non-infectious chronic hypertrophic rhinitis: case series

Fundamento: la reducción quirúrgica del cornete inferior es la conducta de elección en pacientes con rinitis crónica hipertrófica no infecciosa que no responden al tratamiento farmacológico; aunque existen otras técnicas quirúrgicas para ello, todavía son insuficientes las evidencias que soportan su eficacia. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas y los resultados posquirúrgicos en pacientes con rinitis crónica hipertrófica no infecciosa tratados mediante turbinoplastia inferior endoscópica . Metodología: estudio descriptivo de serie de casos en pacientes mayores de 15 años con rinitis crónica hipertrófica no infecciosa tratados mediante turbinoplastia inferior endoscópica en el Centro Nacional Cirugía Mínimo Acceso, entre el 1 de mayo de 2010 al 30 de junio de 2012. Los pacientes se siguieron por 6 meses. Resultados: se incluyeron 36 pacientes, el 63,9 % eran masculinos; el 69,4 % presentó rinitis alérgica. Predominó la obstrucción nasal asociada a rinorrea, prurito y cefalea ( 44,4 %), así como la hipertrofia grado II (58,3 %). Después de la cirugía todos los pacientes mejoraron y solo el 8,3 % presentó complicaciones. Conclusiones: se obtuvieron resultados favorables con el uso de la turbinoplastia inferior endoscópica , fundamentalmente por el alivio de los síntomas y por la escasa presentación de complicaciones.

Background: the surgical reduction of the inferior turbinate is the treatment of choice for patients with non-infectious chronic hypertrophic rhinitis unresponsive to drug treatment; although there are other surgical techniques for this condition, evidence supporting its effectiveness is still insufficient. Objective: to describe the clinical characteristics and postoperative outcomes in patients with non-infectious chronic hypertrophic rhinitis treated by inferior endoscopic turbinoplasty . Methodology: descriptive case series study of patients over 15 years with non-infectious chronic hypertrophic rhinitis treated by inferior endoscopic turbinoplasty in the Minimum Access National Surgery Center from May 1, 2010 to June 30, 2012. The p atients were followed for 6 months. Results: 36 patients were included , 63.9% were male ; 69.4 % had allergic rhinitis. N asal obstruction associated with rhinorrhea , pruritus and headache ( 44.4 %) and grade II hypertrophy ( 58.3 %) predominated . After surgery all patients improved and only 8.3 % had complications . Conclusions : with the use of endoscopic inferior turbinoplasty favorable results were obtained , mainly due to the relief of symptoms and the limited development of complications.

The Efficacy of Posterior Resection of Inferior Turbinate on Patients Who Have Recurred Nasal Obstruction after Inferior Turbinate Surgery / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Various surgical techniques have been tried to relieve nasal obstruction in patients who have hypertrophic inferior turbinate. Recently, coblators and microdebriders are the favored surgical procedure. This study is aimed at evaluating the long term efficacy of posterior resection of inferior turbinate performed on patients for whom the previous inferior turbinate surgery had not relieved the symptoms of nasal obstruction. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We selected 27 patients who have had previous inferior turbinate surgery, but were not relieved of the symptom for nasal obstruction. Under local or general anesthesia, hypertrophied posterior part of inferior turbinate was removed. The symptom changes of nasal obstruction and patients satisfaction were checked pre and postoperatively at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12 month by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score. The minimal cross-sectional area of second notch and volume of nasal cavity were measured at 1, 2, 3, 6, 12 month after operation. RESULTS: There were significant improvement in the VAS score of nasal obstruction and patient satisfaction after the operation. The minimal cross-sectional area of second notch did not change significantly after surgery, but the nasal cavity volume was significantly improved after surgery. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that posterior resection of inferior turbinate is an effective surgical procedure for patients who have hypertrophic inferior turbinate especially on the posterior part.

Olfactory neuroepithelium in the superior and middle turbinates: which is the optimal biopsy site?

INTRODUCTION: Olfactory neuroepithelium (ON) biopsy has several therapeutic applications for both disorders of olfaction and neurodegenerative diseases. Successful collection of ON is still anything but routine due to a dearth of studies on the distribution of ON in the superior and middle turbinates. AIM: To determine the location in which ON is most likely to be present in endoscopically removed cadaver superior and middle turbinates as well as the influences of gender, age, and naris side on the presence of ON and the extent to which it is present. METHODS: We conducted a prospective anatomical study. The superior and middle turbinates on both sides endoscopically removed from 25 fresh cadavers (less than 12 h post-mortem). The turbinates were halved into anterior and posterior segments for a total of 200 specimens, which were analyzed after hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical staining. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides were subjected to blind examination by 3 independent pathologists, and the presence of ON was graded on a 5-point scale from 0 to 4. Kappa measurement was used to determine the agreement between pairs of observers. RESULTS: ON was present in 82.9% of superior turbinate samples and in 17.1% of middle turbinate samples. Immunohistochemistry detected ON in superior turbinates only by S-100 staining and only in 15 fragments. Gender, age, and naris side had no statistically significant effects on the presence of ON. CONCLUSION: When biopsying ON, the posterior portion of the superior turbinate should be targeted whenever possible because it has the highest concentration of ON among the nasal structures.