Evaluating post-rhinoplasty nasal obstruction treatment: The efficacy of VivAer radiofrequency ablation

PURPOSE

Nasal obstruction is a prevalent issue affecting up to one-third of adults, often requiring surgical intervention. Low-temperature radiofrequency (RF) treatment, specifically VivAer, has emerged as a promising alternative, especially for the treatment of nasal valve collapse (NVC). However, its efficacy in patients with a history of rhinoplasty or nasal valve repair remains unexplored.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective chart review was conducted on 37 patients with a history of rhinoplasty or nasal valve repair who underwent VivAer RF treatment. Treatment outcomes were assessed using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale. The primary outcome was defined as a decrease in NOSE score by at least one severity category or a 20 % reduction in total NOSE score.

RESULTS

The study found a statistically significant average reduction in NOSE score of 22.4 points or 36.6 %. Among patients with a positive treatment response (21 patients or 56.8 %), the average NOSE score reduction was 34.7 points or 55.6 %. Repeat RF treatment in non-responders resulted in a 50 % response rate. No significant difference was observed in treatment outcomes based on the type of prior rhinoplasty or NVC.

CONCLUSIONS

Temperature-controlled RF treatment with VivAer can effectively alleviate nasal obstruction in patients with a history of rhinoplasty or nasal valve repair, offering a viable alternative to revision surgery. The study also highlights the potential benefit of repeat RF treatment in non-responders. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is needed to validate these promising results and expand the treatment options for this complex patient population.

Evaluation and Management of the Nasal Airway

Nasal airway obstruction is a very common phenomenon that can significantly decrease patients' quality of life. This review article summarizes in an evidence-based fashion the diagnosis and treatment of nasal airway obstruction. The nasal airway may be obstructed at the level of the nasal valve, septum, nasal turbinates, sinonasal mucosa, or nasopharynx. Nasal valve obstruction and septal deviations are usually treated surgically depending on the level of valve obstruction. Isolated turbinate hypertrophy is usually managed medically as part of the treatment of rhinitis, with surgery reserved for cases refractory to medical care. Sinonasal and nasopharyngeal conditions are treated according to the diagnosis.