the Differences Between Nasal Nerve Resection and Turbinate Surgery

Nasal allergy wing nerve ablation and minimally invasive submucosal inferior turbinate reduction?

Hello Dr.
Cheng: I would like to ask you about the differences between the superior turbinate nerve resection and the minimally invasive submucosal turbinectomy.
Personally, I usually have nasal congestion on only one side, which doesn't significantly affect my daily life.
However, I often find myself using a whole pack of tissues in the morning.
I've gotten used to it, but even slight irritations can lead to a runny nose, requiring 2 or 3 packs of tissues, and my nose often gets raw.
Additionally, I have a significant issue with dark circles under my eyes, which seem to be getting deeper compared to before.
My nasal congestion is not severe enough to cause breathing difficulties like sinusitis, but it is almost constant, and when I do have a runny nose, it can be quite excessive.
I have researched these two surgical options online and hope you can provide me with some advice.
Thank you.

Qiu Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/02

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the neurotomy of the nasal wings primarily targets rhinorrhea, while the minimally invasive submucosal resection of the inferior turbinate mainly addresses nasal obstruction.
It is advisable to seek medical evaluation and discuss with your physician which type of surgery or medication would be appropriate for control.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/05/02

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the differences between nasal nerve resection and turbinate surgery. It’s great that you’re seeking to understand these procedures better, especially given your ongoing nasal issues.

Understanding the Procedures
1. Nasal Nerve Resection (specifically, the sphenopalatine ganglion block or nerve resection):
- This procedure targets the sphenopalatine ganglion, which is a collection of nerve cells that can contribute to nasal congestion and rhinorrhea (runny nose). By interrupting the signals sent from these nerves, the surgery aims to reduce the symptoms of nasal allergies and chronic rhinitis.

- Patients often report a decrease in nasal secretions and improved airflow post-surgery. However, it’s important to note that while this procedure can alleviate symptoms, it may not address structural issues within the nasal cavity.

2. Turbinate Surgery (such as submucosal resection or reduction):
- This surgery focuses on the turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that help warm and humidify the air we breathe. When these structures become enlarged (hypertrophied), they can obstruct airflow and contribute to nasal congestion.

- The goal of turbinate surgery is to reduce the size of these structures, thereby improving airflow and reducing nasal obstruction. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who experience chronic nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose.

Key Differences
- Target Area: Nasal nerve resection primarily targets the nerve pathways that contribute to nasal secretions and congestion, while turbinate surgery directly addresses the physical structures (the turbinates) that may be causing nasal obstruction.

- Indications: If your primary issue is excessive nasal secretions and allergy symptoms, nasal nerve resection might be more appropriate. Conversely, if you are experiencing significant nasal obstruction due to enlarged turbinates, turbinate surgery may be the better option.

- Recovery and Outcomes: Recovery times can vary between the two procedures. Generally, turbinate surgery may involve more immediate post-operative discomfort due to the manipulation of nasal tissues, while nerve resection might have a quicker recovery period. However, the effectiveness of each procedure can vary based on individual anatomy and the underlying cause of symptoms.

Considerations for Your Symptoms
Given your description of frequent nasal congestion, significant rhinorrhea, and the impact on your daily life, it’s crucial to discuss these symptoms with your ENT specialist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine which procedure may be best suited for your specific condition.
Additionally, if you are experiencing worsening symptoms such as deepening dark circles under your eyes, this could be related to chronic nasal congestion and the resultant sleep disturbances. Addressing your nasal issues may not only improve your nasal symptoms but could also have a positive impact on your overall quality of life.

Conclusion
In summary, both nasal nerve resection and turbinate surgery have their unique benefits and are aimed at different aspects of nasal dysfunction. It’s essential to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider to assess your specific symptoms, medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of each procedure. They can help guide you toward the best treatment option tailored to your needs.
Wishing you the best in your journey toward relief from your nasal symptoms!

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