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Published on: November 6, 2019
Efficacy and safety of inferior turbinates coblation in children
M A Bitar1, A A Kanaan1, S Sinno1
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center,American University of Beirut,Lebanon.
Insights
Coblation effectively reduces inferior turbinate hypertrophy in children, improving nasal obstruction and allergic rhinitis symptoms. This safe procedure offers long-lasting relief for pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Inferior turbinate hypertrophy is a common cause of nasal obstruction in children.
- Effective and safe treatment options are needed to improve pediatric quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of coblation for inferior turbinate reduction in children.
- To assess the long-term outcomes of this procedure.
Main Methods:
- An observational cohort study included 32 children (aged 6-17 years).
- Nasal obstruction, allergic rhinitis severity, and post-operative complications were assessed using validated tools and endoscopy.
- Follow-up extended up to 4 years, with statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Main Results:
- Coblation significantly improved nasal obstruction (p<0.001) and allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- These improvements were sustained at a mean follow-up of 10.5 months.
- No major complications like mucosal ulceration or adhesions were observed; minimal crusting occurred in 8.57% of patients.
Conclusions:
- Coblation is a safe and effective surgical option for inferior turbinate reduction in children aged six and older.
- The procedure provides durable relief from nasal obstruction and associated symptoms.
Objective:
To assess the effectiveness and safety of coblation in relieving inferior turbinate hypertrophy in children.
Methods:
An observational cohort study was undertaken. The severity of allergic rhinitis and the severity and degree of nasal obstruction were assessed using subjective and clinical symptom grading tools, a visual analogue scale, and endoscopy. Any post-operative complications were noted at 1 week, and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Data from extended follow-up periods were included when available. The statistical significance of changes in parameter values was assessed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Results:
Thirty-two patients were recruited (mean age, 11.28 years; range, 6-17 years). Significant post-operative improvement (p<0.001) was noted in the severity and degree of nasal obstruction. This improvement was maintained after a mean follow-up period of 10.5 months (range, 1 month to 4 years). No mucosal ulceration or adhesion was encountered. Minimal crusting was noted in 8.57 per cent of patients at 1-week follow up. Allergic rhinitis symptoms improved significantly.
Conclusion:
Inferior turbinate reduction by coblation is an effective and safe procedure in children aged six years and older. The positive outcomes seem to be long-lasting.
