Submucosal Resection of Turbinates
by
Michael Jubinville, MPH DefinitionA submucosal resection of the turbinate is removal of bone from the lower turbinates. The turbinates are 3 sets of structures that line the inside wall of the nasal cavity. They are made of small bones that are surrounded by soft tissue. These turbinates filter, moisten, and heat air as it enters the nose. Submucosal resection of turbinates may be done in combination with a septoplasty.
Reasons for ProcedureTurbinates can be come enlarged and make it difficult to breathe through your nose. Submucosal resection of turbinates reduces the size of the turbinates to open up the airway. It may be done to:
Possible ComplicationsProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
What to ExpectPrior to ProcedureYour doctor may do the following before your surgery:
Before your procedure:
Your doctor will recommend that you stop smoking up to a month before the procedure. Smoking leads to an increase in scar tissue and poor healing that affects the success of the surgery. AnesthesiaDepending on the extent of the surgery, you may have:
Description of the ProcedureA thin, lighted tube will be inserted into your nose. An incision will be made in the soft tissue of the turbinate to expose the bone. A piece of the bone will be removed or shaved down. Excess tissue around the turbinate may also be removed. The tissue may be removed with surgical cut, radiofrequency, or electrical heat. Packing may be placed around the area to help stop bleeding. How Long Will It Take?1-2 hours Will It Hurt?Anesthesia will block pain during the procedure. You will have pain after the procedure. Ask your doctor about medication to help manage pain. Post-procedure CareAt the Care Center Right after the procedure, you will be in a recovery room where your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be monitored. Recovery may also include:
At Home The feeling of stuffiness is common after surgery because of swelling. Nasal sprays will help keep your nasal passageways moist, clean debris like dried blood, and assist in healing. When you return home, avoid strenuous activities until your doctor says it is safe to do so—probably about 2 weeks. Call Your DoctorContact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications, such as:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery http://www.entnet.org Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians https://familydoctor.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Society of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery http://www.entcanada.org The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca References:Brunworth J, Holmes J, Sindwani R. Inferior turbinate hypertrophy: review and graduated approach to surgical management. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2013;27(5):411-415. Reduction of turbinates. ENT Consent Patient Resource website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated October 23, 2004. Accessed December 18, 2017. Septoplasty & turbinate surgery. American Rhinologic Society website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated February 17, 2015. Accessed December 18, 2017. Turbinate reduction. Johns Hopkins Sinus Center website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/otolaryngology/specialty_areas/sinus_center/procedures/turbinate_reduction.html. Accessed December 18, 2017. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Donald W. Buck II, MD Last Updated: 12/9/2014 | |
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