Radiofrequency Volumetric Tissue Reduction for Nasal Obstruction

Nasal obstruction is defined clinically as a patient symptom that presents as a sensation of reduced or insufficient airflow through the nose. Nasal valve collapse (NVC) is a readily identifiable cause of nasal obstruction. Specifically, the internal nasal valve represents the narrowest portion of the nasal airway with the upper lateral nasal cartilages present as supporting structures. The external nasal valve is an area of potential dynamic collapse that is supported by the lower lateral cartilages. Damaged or weakened cartilage will further decrease airway capacity and increase airflow resistance and may be associated with symptoms of obstruction. Patients with NVC may be treated with nonsurgical interventions in an attempt to increase the airway capacity but severe symptoms and anatomic distortion are treated with surgical cartilage graft procedures. The application of radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction for nasal obstruction has been proposed as a less invasive means to treat nasal obstruction due to internal NVC. By utilizing RF energy, the treatment aims to provide relief with reduced recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional surgical methods.