Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation

Chronic rhinitis is a nasal condition that involves persistent inflammation of the nasal passages, resulting in a recurrent runny nose and nasal congestion. It can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Environmental allergies
• Overuse of nasal decongestant sprays (Afrin, phenylephrine)
• Environmental triggers such as particular odors, alcohol, spicy foods, emotions, alterations in temperature or barometric pressure, and even bright lights
• Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy
• Certain medications, such as beta-blockers, aspirin, and the contraceptive pill

Symptoms of chronic rhinitis include: runny nose, post-nasal drip, chronic sore throat, chronic cough, and throat clearing.

Chronic rhinitis can lead to sleep disturbances and decreased quality of life. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications such as prescription nasal sprays and oral medications, environmental measures, and when allergies are the source, immunotherapy (allergy shots).

When medications fail, there are minimally invasive in-office procedures that can treat chronic rhinitis. Posterior nasal nerve (PNN) ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that treats chronic rhinitis by using radiofrequency energy or cold directed at the nerves in the back of the nose that regulate nasal secretions. This prevents the nerves from sending signals that cause a chronic runny nose.

PNN ablation is a safe and effective treatment that can improve quality of life for people with chronic rhinitis. It’s considered the standard treatment for chronic rhinitis that doesn’t respond to medical therapy.

Here are some benefits of PNN ablation:

• High success rate
  Clinical studies show that PNN ablation has a high success rate, with 4 out of 5 patients reporting significant relief.
• Quick recovery
  Patients typically heal quickly with no visible scars or few side effects. Most patients can return to their normal routine within a day.
• Relieves the root cause
  PNN ablation focuses on relieving the root cause of the problem, not just symptoms.

PNN ablation is typically performed in an office and takes about an hour. It can also be performed in conjunction with other minimally invasive procedures to improve the success rate or treat other associated conditions. These include: turbinate reduction, nasal swell body reduction, Vivaer nasal valve repair, or balloon sinuplasty.

Ask your doctor if PNN ablation is the right treatment for you.