A turbinectomy is a surgical procedure performed to solve the difficulty in breathing in people who have nasal turbinate hypertrophy that do not improve with the common treatment indicated by the otorhinolaryngologist. The nasal turbinates, also called nasal conchae, are structures located in the nasal cavity that aim to make room for the circulation of air and, thus, filter and heat the inspired air.
However, in some situations, mainly due to trauma in the region, recurrent infections or chronic rhinitis and sinusitis, it is possible to observe an increase in the nasal turbinates, making it difficult for air to enter and pass, thus making breathing more difficult. Therefore, the doctor can indicate the performance of the turbinectomy, which can be classified into two main types:
- Total turbinectomy, in which the entire structure of the nasal turbinates is removed, that is, bones and mucosa; Partial turbinectomy, in which the structures of the nasal conchae are partially removed.
The turbinectomy must be performed at the hospital, by a facial surgeon, and it is a quick surgery, and the person can go home on the same day.
How it is done
Turbinectomy is a simple, low-risk procedure that can be done under both general and local anesthesia. The procedure lasts an average of 30 minutes and is done with the help of visualizing the internal structure of the nose through an endoscope.
After identifying the degree of hypertrophy, the physician may choose to remove all or just a part of the nasal turbinates, taking into account at the moment the risk of new hypertrophy and the patient's history.
Although turbinectomy guarantees a longer-lasting result, it is a more invasive procedure and takes longer to heal, with the risk of scabs forming, which must be removed by the doctor, and minor nosebleeds.
Turbinectomy x Turbinoplasty
Like turbinectomy, turbinoplasty also corresponds to a surgical procedure of the nasal turbinates. However, in this type of procedure, the nasal conchae are not removed, they are just moved so that the air can circulate and pass without any impediment.
Only in some cases, when just changing the position of the nasal turbinates would not be enough to regulate breathing, it may be necessary to remove a small amount of turbinate tissue.
Recovery after Turbinectomy
As it is a simple and low-risk procedure, turbinectomy does not have many postoperative recommendations. After the end of the anesthesia effect, the patient is usually released home, and must remain at rest for about 48 hours to avoid significant bleeding.
It is normal for there to be a little bleeding from the nose or throat during this period, but most of the time it happens as a result of the procedure. However, if the bleeding is heavy or lasts several days, it is recommended to go to the doctor.
It is also recommended to keep the respiratory tract clean, performing nasal lavage according to medical advice, and making periodic consultations with the otorhinolaryngologist so that the possible formed crusts are removed. See how to do the nasal wash.
