Head and Neck Cancer Research

The role of endoscopic transnasal microwave ablation in otorhinolgic procedures: An alternative to conventional coagulation modalities

Objective: Otorlaryngologist have long employed thermal ablation and coagulation modalities such as, radiofrequency ablation and diathermy cautery to manage soft tissue hypertrophy. Microwave ablation (MWA) has recently become a popular thermal modality for minimally invasive procedures due to faster ablation times, larger ablation volumes, and effectiveness in many tissue types. This study presents a retrospective review of patients undergoing transnasal endoscopic procedures utilizing microwave ablation.

Methods: Retrospective chart review comparing surgical technique and short-term outcomes in patients undergoing endoscopic trannasal microwave ablation at a academic affiliated multi-specialty practice between January 1st 2019 to January 1st 2020.

Results: 12 patients underwent transnasal endoscopic ablation utilizing the NuWave PR microwave ablation probe. 8 patients underwent submucosal turbinate reduction. 2 patients underwent polypectomies, 2 patients underwent adenoidectomies. Mean follow up was 14 weeks.

Conclusion: Endoscopic transnasal procedures utilizing microwave ablation is feasible and offers several advantages over traditional coagulation modalities including speed of procedure, speed of recovery.

Author(s):

Marc Dean

Abstract | PDF

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