Closed Microfracture Technique for Surgical Correction of Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy in Rhinoplasty: Safety and Technical Considerations.

Abstract

An abundance of surgical procedures are in use for the management of inferior turbinate hypertrophy in rhinoplasty patients. An ideal treatment approach is elusive, given the variability of patient presentation regarding obstructive nasal airway, significant complications associated with techniques that cause mucosal trauma, and the high recurrence rates associated with more conservative techniques. In an effort to improve patient safety, the authors describe a conservative technique-the closed microfracture-that provides an effective functional airway improvement and minimal to no complications. The authors propose a treatment approach for enlarged inferior turbinates based on turbinate subtype.