Endoscopic Potassium-Titanyl-Phosphate Laser Treatment for the Reduction of Hypertrophic Inferior Nasal Turbinate

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the efficacy of using the KTP/532 laser in endoscopic inferior turbinate reduction surgery. BACKGROUND DATA: Potasium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP/532) laser is a useful tool in endoscopic intranasal operations, due to its outstanding capabilities in hemostasis, tissue penetration, and the maneuverability of its flexible transmission optic fiber. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 124 patients (male/female 73:51, mean age 38.7 +/- 12.3 years) with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis who received endoscopic KTP/532 laser inferior turbinate reduction surgery (7 Watts, continuous mode, 0.6-1-mm spots) were available for follow-up (mean follow-up period, 25.1 +/- 7.3 months). Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and patients were interviewed with a questionnaire. RESULTS: The KTP/532 laser was excellent in relieving nose obstruction caused by inferior turbinate hypertrophy; 87% of patients reported improvement. The outcomes were less promising in reducing post-nasal drip; 12.9% reported only some improvement. Under intranasal endoscopy, the risk of postoperative bleeding and complication was low. CONCLUSION: The findings proved that, with the use of an endoscope, the KTP/532 laser appears to be an excellent alternative for treating hypertrophic inferior turbinate.