Publication:

Effect of partial inferior turbinectomy operation on pulmonary function tests

Background Nasal obstruction due to persistent hypertrophy of inferior turbinates is very common affecting respiration and daily activity. Partial inferior turbinectomy is a very safe and effective operation overcoming the nasal obstruction and nasal resistance caused by hypertrophied turbinates.

Methods In this prospective descriptive study, we tried to evaluate the effect of the operation on pulmonary functions and daily activity objectively by using spirometry and 6-minutes walking test before and after the operation. Thirty patients were included in this study.

Results Significant improvement after the operation. Also, we use a subjective VAS score which revealed the same results, proving that, the pulmonary function tests improved significantly after partial inferior turbinectomy operation.

Conclusions Partial inferior turbinectomy is a very effective operation in the management of nasal obstruction caused by persistent hypertrophy of inferior turbinates resulting in improvement of the pulmonary function tests and daily activity after the operation without marked complications.