Turbinate Cauterization in Pediatric Patients With Nasal Obstruction

Turbinate Cauterization in Pediatric Patients With Nasal Obstruction A Randomized Prospective Trial

patients will be placed in 2 groups, with or without turbinate cautery ( a surgical method to reduce the size of the skin covered bones in the nose), at the time of adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy. It will compare the amount of nasal congestion for each group with the idea that it will be less if treated with turbinate cauterization. Assessments from baseline to 6 months post procedure will be compared between the two groups.

To assess if inferior turbinate cautery improves nasal obstruction in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ages 3-16
• obstructive sleep apnea warranting adenotonsillectomy
• history of daytime nasal obstruction and or mouth breathing
• failed medical treatment with either oral anti-histamine or nasal steroid spray.
• turbinate hypertrophy on Physical Exam defined by >50% obstruction

Exclusion Criteria:

• <3 or >16
• unwillingness to comply with study procedures
• congenital head and neck malformations, genetic syndromes, craniofacial anomalies
• no evidence of turbinate hypertrophy or symptoms of nasal obstruction
• pregnancy or breastfeeding
• bleeding disorders
• current therapy with coumadin or Pradaxa