Coblation-Assisted Turbinoplasty: A Comparative Analysis of Reflex Ultra and Turbinator Wand

Abstract

Coblation is a novel technology and has a wide application in the field of otorhinolaryngology. We conducted a randomized, noncontrolled study to compare the effectiveness of 2 types of wands used for turbinoplasty for nasal obstruction due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Reflex Ultra and Turbinator wands were compared on a total of 150 patients. These patients were divided into a group of 75 patients each in a randomized manner. Results were compared based on the visual analog scale, and objective assessment was done on the basis of endoscopic assessment, that is, Nasal Endoscopic Score (NES). Assessment was done on postoperative day 7, first month, third month, and first year. Both groups demonstrated significant and similar results in long term, but an immediate improvement at 1 week was seen in the Turbinator group. Hence, we conclude that coblation turbinoplasty is an effective technique for turbinate reduction and both wands are equally effective in long term. However, Reflex Ultra has the advantage of mucosal preservation and minimal morbidity, and Turbinator has the advantage of immediate relief in nasal symptoms.

Surgical Interventions for Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy: A Comprehensive Review of Current Techniques and Technologies

“…Thus, in addition to its thermal effect on the soft tissue, it has the ability to dissect the soft erectile tissue from turbinate bone. In a study by Mehta et al [36], the Turbinator wand was compared with the Reflex Ultra wand. In one arm, the patients were subjected to turbinoplasty with Turbinator, and the other arm underwent Reflex Ultra.…”