Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Nasal Cryoablation, Sinus Cryoablation
• Technical/Medical Term: Nasal/sinus endoscopy, cryoablation nasal tissue(s) and/or nerve(s), unilateral or bilateral (C9771)

Summary

Nasal/sinus cryoablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses cold temperatures to destroy abnormal tissue or nerve endings in the nasal passages and sinuses. It can be performed on one or both sides of the nose.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Chronic rhinitis, nasal obstruction, chronic sinusitis, and certain types of neuralgias.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: To reduce symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and facial pain by targeting and eliminating problematic tissues or nerves.

Indications

• Symptoms or Conditions: Persistent nasal congestion, chronic runny nose, sinus pain, and headaches not relieved by other treatments.
• Patient Criteria: Individuals who have not responded well to medication or other conservative treatments and suffer from chronic nasal or sinus issues.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for a few hours prior, avoid certain medications like blood thinners, and arrange for transportation home post-procedure.
• Diagnostic Tests: Nasal endoscopy and imaging studies like a CT scan of the sinuses to assess the area for the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is prepared and positioned appropriately.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically applied to numb the area.
3. Endoscopy: A thin, flexible endoscope is inserted into the nasal passages to provide visualization.
4. Cryoablation: A cryoprobe is introduced through the endoscope to freeze and destroy the abnormal tissue or nerve endings.
5. Completion: The endoscope and cryoprobe are removed, and the nasal passages are checked for bleeding and secured if necessary.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Usually performed in an outpatient clinic, surgical center, or hospital's otolaryngology department.

Personnel

• Primary Healthcare Providers: Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist)
• Support Staff: Nurses, possibly an anesthesiologist if general anesthesia is required

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild pain or discomfort, nasal bleeding, crusting.
• Rare Risks: Infection, prolonged numbness, changes in smell or taste, accidental injury to surrounding tissues.
• Management: Medications for pain, antibiotics for infection, follow-up visits to monitor healing.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Improved nasal airflow, reduced nasal discharge, and relief from sinus pain or headaches.
• Timeline: Benefits may be realized within days to weeks following the procedure.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients may be advised to use saline nasal sprays and avoid strenuous activity for a short period.
• Expected Recovery Time: Often within one to two weeks.
• Follow-up: Periodic visits to evaluate recovery and symptom resolution.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Medication management (antihistamines, nasal steroids), nasal surgery (septoplasty, turbinate reduction), radiofrequency ablation.
• Comparison: Medications may offer temporary relief, whereas surgery might be more invasive but provide longer-term solutions.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia; some pressure or cold sensation may be felt.
• After Procedure: Mild pain managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, some bleeding or nasal discharge is normal. Comfort measures like saline sprays help soothe and cleanse the nasal passages.

Through targeted cryoablation, patients often find significant relief from chronic symptoms, offering an effective solution when other treatments have failed.