Long-term histologic effects of inferior turbinate laser surgery

OBJECTIVE: In this study we sought to define the histologic changes produce d by laser treatment of inferior turbinates. STUDY DESIGN: Eight inferior turbinates with prior laser treatment (mean, 2 6.8 months) were analyzed by light microscopy after turbinectomy for relief of refractory nasal obstruction. Histologic findings were compared with th ose of a group of 8 hypertrophic inferior turbinates that had no previous l aser surgery. RESULTS: Laser-treated areas of the inferior turbinates demonstrated a hist ologically bland appearance, with marked diminution of seromucinous glands and relative preponderance of connective tissue matrix. Prominence of venou s sinusoids was also significantly reduced in the laser-treated areas. Surf ace epithelium including goblet cells was reconstituted over the areas of l aser application. CONCLUSION: Clinical laser surgery of the inferior turbinate produces strik ing long-term histologic changes. SIGNIFICANCE: The data suggest a differential response of turbinate histolo gic components to application of laser energy with the glandular component being particularly sensitive, Further correlative study is needed to clarif y the clinical significance of laser-induced histologic changes in inferior turbinates.