Publication:

Efficacy of KTP-532 laser assisted turbinoplasty and submucosal diathermy using monopolar cautery on symptomatic patients with hypertrophied inferior turbinates

Background Hypertrophy of the turbinate mucosa is commonly associated with rhinitis. Patients with nasal turbinate dysfunction present with symptoms require surgery once it has become refractory to medical treatment. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of laser assisted turbinoplasty using KTP (potassium titanyl phosphate)-532 laser and submucosal diathermy using monopolar cautery on symptomatic patients with hypertrophied inferior turbinates.

Methods A prospective study was conducted on thirty two patients between the age group 15 to 62 yrs. A detailed history, clinical examination and specific radiological investigation were done. Sixteen patients were subjected to laser turbinoplasty and the remaining sixteen were subjected to submucosal diathermy (SMD) using monopolar cautery. Post operatively all patients were assessed at 2 wks and thereafter at monthly intervals for 10 months. The improvement of symptoms at 2 wks post operatively and at 8 to 10 months was recorded. The clinical data and observations were analyzed statistically.

Results Comparing the benefited group and the cured group between laser and SMD on hypertrophied inferior turbinates at the end of 9 months, though statistically not significant (P >0.05), laser has a definite role in improving the patients satisfaction and complaints. The lack of post-operative pain, less post-operative discomfort and very minimal bleeding found in cases subjected for laser assisted turbinoplasty compared to SMD.

Conclusions KTP - 532 laser provides an excellent means of achieving symptomatic relief when compared to SMD. Further, it has advantage of very minimal or no bleeding, lack of postoperative pain, discomfort and marked reduction in size of the turbinate.