Powered microdebrider turbinoplasty aims to reduce the size of inferior turbinates that are swollen due to vasomotor or allergic rhinitis. It removes submucosal vascular stromal tissue, while preserving overlying respiratory mucosa, using a cutting tool with irrigation and suction functions (microdebrider).
Powered microdebrider turbinoplasty is usually performed with the patient under local anaesthesia. Under direct vision, a microdebrider is inserted through the nostril and into the anterior face of the inferior turbinate, just medial to the mucocutaneous junction. The microdebrider is advanced until it pierces the mucosa. A submucosal pocket is then made by sweeping the microdebrider in anterior‑to‑posterior and superior‑to‑inferior directions. Stromal tissue is then removed using irrigation and suction.