Endoscopic Subtotal Inferior Turbinectomy is a Safe Procedure

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic subtotal inferior turbinectomy (ESIT) on nasal obstruction and the consequences of this approach.
Study Design: Prospective interventional cohort study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted within Basra between October 2023 to October 2025.
Methods: The total number of patients who were undertaken endoscopic subtotal inferior turbinectomy and followed up for one year was 425 patients. Post-operative evaluation was conducted using clinical assessment, including endoscopic examination and a structured questionnaire completed by patients during follow-up visits.
Results: All patients reported improvement in nasal obstruction postoperatively. Headache and nasal discharge were improved in approximately 83% and 76% respectively. Thirty-three patients (out of 425) developed haemorrhage after removal of the packs and only five patients required surgical interference to stop bleeding. No statistically significant difference was observed in the onset of haemorrhage postoperatively between day 1(after removal of nasal pack) and day 3-10 (p=1.000). Crusting was demonstrated in 40% of patients during the first three months and it disappeared in the following period. Mucosal adhesion was noticed in patients who were required septoplasty as well as inferior turbinectomy. Re-enlargement of turbinates were been noticed in 2.1% of patients postoperatively during follow up period.
Conclusion: Endoscopic subtotal inferior turbinectomy is safe procedure and effective in treating nasal obstruction.