Long-term Outcomes Following Temperature-Controlled Radiofrequency Neurolysis for the Treatment of Chronic Rhinitis

Abstract

Background: Temperature-controlled radiofrequency neurolysis of the posterior nasal nerve has been shown to reduce the symptom burden of patients with chronic rhinitis. Objectives: To evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of temperature-controlled radiofrequency neurolysis of the posterior nasal nerve for the treatment of chronic rhinitis. Methods: A prospective extension of a 12-month single-arm study, where reflective total nasal symptom score (rTNSS) and the responses to a study-specific quality of life questionnaire and patient satisfaction survey were collected at 24 months. Results: Forty-seven patients completed initial 12-month follow-up after treatment with the study device, of which 34 patients were reconsented and completed 24-month follow-up. The mean rTNSS of the long-term follow-up patients improved from 8.4 (95% confidence interval (CI), 7.7 to 9.0) at baseline to 2.9 (95% CI, 2.1 to 3.6), P