The Effect of Radiofrequency Ablation of Posterior Nasal Nerves on Inflammatory Cytokines, Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow, and Subjective Symptom Scores in Chronic Rhinitis: A Prospective Clinical Trial.
Ann Otol Rhinol LaryngolMay 9, 2026 (epub)
David Z Allen, Elena E Skaribas, Ashwini Bandi et al.
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In 30 seconds
This prospective clinical trial evaluated the effects of radiofrequency neurolysis (RFN) of the posterior nasal nerve on patients with chronic rhinitis. Among 15 treated patients, the reflective total nasal symptom score (rTNSS) improved significantly from a median of 7.5 to 4 at 12 weeks (P < .01), indicating effective symptom relief.
Key findings
- The rTNSS improved from a median of 7.5 to 4 at 12 weeks (P < .01).
- Median NOSE scores improved from 52.5 to 17.5 at week 12 (P < .05).
- 67% of patients achieved minimal clinically important differences for rTNSS.
- Patient-level change in IL-10 was significantly associated with improvement in NOSE score (r = -.70, P = .011).
Why it matters
The findings suggest that RFN may provide significant symptom relief for patients with chronic rhinitis, potentially improving quality of life. Understanding the relationship between cytokine levels and symptom improvement could inform future treatment strategies.