Microdebrider Turbinectomy Surgery

Why Microdebrider Turbinectomy is Needed?

There are a number of reasons why the turbinectomy is needed. A few of them are:

• Enlarged lower turbinates
• Deviated nasal septum
• A narrow internal nasal valve area
• Allergic rhinitis
• Vasomotor rhinitis
• Submucosal fibrosis
• Compensatory hypertrophy of inferior turbinate

How is Microdebrider Turbinectomy Performed?

The stages of microdebrider turbinectomy is divided in following stages:

• Grade I: Mild Enlargement, no obvious Nasal Obstruction.
• Grade II: Moderate Enlargement, Nasal Obstruction.
• Grade III: Complete Occlusion of Nasal Cavity, Severe Nasal Obstruction.

All cases are operated under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation and throat pack. At first, the doctor sprays xylometazoline in the nasal cavity, and then xylometazoline soaked strip gauze is inserted into the nasal cavity. The doctor injects the turbinate with a combination of xylometazoline and adrenaline in the submucosal plane. A small incision is made on the anterior part of the turbinate, and a submucosal tunnel is created with sharp dissection on the medial surface of the turbinate using an endoscope. After that, a microdebrider is inserted in the submucosal tunnel. The direction of the blade of the microdebrider is parallel towards the bone. Bony turbinate and some of the submucosal tissue are debrided in the anteroposterior direction. The doctor pays attention to keep the mucosal surface safe. Haemostasis is achieved with suction electrocautery, if necessary. The incision is not stitched. Once the operation is completed, the patient’s nose is packed with glove finger packing which can be removed after 24 hours

The Risks and Complications are:

The midrodebrider turbinectomy is an effective procedure, but it has some complications as well. Visit a doctor immediately if any complication is observed.

• Haemorrhage
• Dryness and crusting in the nose
• Foul discharge
• Septal perforation
• Bone exposure
• Osteitis (inflammation)
• Change in the appearance of the nose
• Empty nose syndrome (atrophicrhinitis)
• Epiphora (watery discharge)
• Greater palatine nerve dehiscence
• Facial spasm and numbness
• Slow or stagnant recovery

How is the Postoperative Care Done?

This is quite a painless procedure. You will not be required to stay at the hospital. However, the patient will be educated in basic care of the operated site.

• For the first few weeks, your nose will feel blocked.
• Saline rinses are recommended.
• The front of the nose feels tender because of the sutures
• Following the prescribed rest period at home is essential.
• Vigorous exercises should be avoided for two weeks.
• Stressful situations must be avoided.
• Nasal packaging must be carefully removed.