Effectiveness of transnasal endoscopic powered adenoidectomy in patients with choanal adenoids

Khalid A Al-Mazrou1, Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Abdulrhman I Al-Fayez

  • 1Pediatric Otolaryngology, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, King Saud University & University Hospitals, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. kalmazrou@gmail.com

Insights

Transnasal endoscopic powered adenoidectomy (TEPA) is a safe and effective technique for removing choanal adenoids in children. This method significantly reduces operative time and blood loss compared to traditional curettage adenoidectomy.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Endoscopic Surgery

Background:

  • Adenoid hypertrophy is a common cause of upper airway obstruction in children.
  • Choanal adenoids, specifically, can lead to significant respiratory and sleep disturbances.
  • Traditional adenoidectomy techniques may have limitations in terms of efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the technique and efficacy of transnasal endoscopic powered adenoidectomy (TEPA).
  • To compare TEPA with curettage adenoidectomy (CA) in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized study involving 40 children (ages 3-17) with symptoms of snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (TEPA) and Group B (CA).
  • Pre- and postoperative nasal endoscopy were performed; outcomes included operative time, blood loss, morbidity, and symptom resolution.

Main Results:

  • TEPA demonstrated significantly less blood loss (8.2 ml vs. 22.1 ml) and shorter operative time (6.1 min vs. 12.3 min) compared to CA (p<0.05).
  • No operative or postoperative complications were observed in either group.
  • Postoperative follow-up confirmed no recurrence of symptoms or adenoid tissue.

Conclusions:

  • Transnasal endoscopic powered adenoidectomy is an adequate and safe surgical option for choanal adenoid removal.
  • TEPA offers advantages in reduced blood loss and operative time.
  • This technique should be considered by pediatric otolaryngologists for treating adenoid hypertrophy.
Abstract