Partial resection of the middle turbinate (Mucocele) (anesthesia and hospitalization costs not included)
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Please note that self-interpretation of results is not acceptable. The information below is provided for informational purposes only.
Partial resection of the middle turbinate is an otorhinolaryngological surgical procedure involving the removal of a limited portion of the middle nasal turbinate, especially in cases where it is hypertrophic, deviated, or affected by lesions such as mucoceles.
The middle turbinate plays a key role in regulating airflow, filtering and humidifying inhaled air, and ensuring the normal drainage of the ethmoidal and maxillary sinuses. In certain conditions (e.g., chronic rhinosinusitis, mucoceles, severe septal deviation, structural obstructions), the turbinate may hinder ventilation and physiological drainage, contributing to persistent inflammation and chronic symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial pressure, and headaches.
Mucoceles are mucus-filled cystic formations that occur due to obstruction of the drainage ducts of the seromucous glands in the middle nasal turbinate. These can cause nasal blockage, facial pain, or recurrent sinus infections, particularly when they compress adjacent structures or block sinus drainage.
Purpose of the Procedure
The goal of partial resection of the middle turbinate is to remove the cystic formation (mucocele) and restore the functional anatomy of the nasal cavity, improving ventilation and drainage of the paranasal sinuses. It is typically performed using a minimally invasive endoscopic technique.
- Decongest the nasal cavity
- Restore upper airway patency
- Improve paranasal sinus drainage
- Reduce the risk of recurrent infections
The intervention is generally performed endonasally, using an endoscope under local or general anesthesia, and is considered minimally invasive. Turbinate functions are preserved by avoiding total removal, thus preventing disruption of nasal physiology and avoiding “empty nose syndrome.”
Indications:
- Persistent unilateral nasal obstruction
- Facial pain or pressure in the ethmoidal region
- Recurrent sinus infections (chronic sinusitis)
- Imaging confirmation (CT/MRI) of a middle turbinate mucocele
- Failure of conservative treatment (decongestants, topical corticosteroids)
Preoperative Preparation:
- Detailed ENT consultation with nasal endoscopy
- Imaging (CT of paranasal sinuses) to assess mucocele size and location
- Standard preoperative tests (CBC, coagulation panel, ECG, anesthetic evaluation)
- Temporary discontinuation of anticoagulants as advised by the physician (7–14 days prior)
- Fasting for at least 6 hours before surgery (if under general anesthesia)
Procedure:
The intervention is performed via an endoscopic endonasal approach. Partial resection of the middle turbinate is carried out (only the affected segments), with complete excision of the mucocele and restoration of aeromucosal drainage.
Duration: 30–60 minutes
Anesthesia: Local or general, depending on the case
Hospitalization: Outpatient or short-term admission
Recovery:
- Nasal congestion and local discomfort for 2–5 days
- Avoid blowing the nose for the first 3–5 days
- Recommended nasal irrigation with isotonic saline solutions
- Return to normal activities after 3–5 days
- Postoperative follow-up at 7–10 days with endoscopic assessment
Partial resection of the middle turbinate is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedure that enables the removal of mucoceles and restoration of nasal respiratory function. It helps reduce chronic symptoms and prevent sinus complications, with a short recovery time and excellent functional outcomes.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9669871/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10447755/
https://rjr.ro/files/library/38%20RJR%2006.pdf
IMPORTANT!
It is very important to note that the information in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing pain or worsening of a condition, you must consult a physician for diagnostic investigations. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
To ensure the most precise and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to perform the analyses in the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and measurement units for similar investigations.
