Inferior turbinate reduction in children using Holmium YAG laser-a clinical and histological study

Background and Objectives To compare the efficacy and safety of inferior turbinate reduction in children using Holmium:YAG (Ho:Yag) laser and diathermy. Histological effects of these treatments on turbinate tissue are also studied. Study Design/Materials and Methods A retrospective review and structured telephone interview of paediatric cases treated with Ho:Yag laser and diathermy to inferior turbinates. The complications, morbidity and efficacy were quantified. Histological sections of inferior turbinates treated with diathermy (surface and submucosal) and laser were compared. Results Efficacy in the laser (n = 8) and diathermy group (n = 11) was similar. The complication/morbidity score was lower in the laser group, 1.92 versus 3.48, (P = 0.04, CI: 0.01, 2). Long‐term benefit was 50 and 36% in the laser and diathermy group respectively. Histology showed very limited tissue damage in all methods of treatment. Conclusions Ho:Yag laser treatment is equally efficacious, but causes less complications and morbidity compared to surface diathermy. Both treatment methods have poor long‐term efficacy, which may be related to limited tissue damage. Lasers Surg. Med. 34:310–314, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.