The history of the treatment of atrophic rhinitis

Abstract

Atrophic rhinitis is a chronic progressive disease characterized by abnormal dilata­tion of the nasal cavities with atrophy of the mucosa, nasal submucosa and underlying nasal turbinates. The etiopathogenic factors are still unknown. Its clinical presentation consists of paradoxical nasal congestion associated with viscous secretions, usually with the presence of dry, bad-smelling crusts. Nasal hygiene with high pressure irriga­tion remains the standard of medical treatment. Surgical treatment seeks to reduce the size of nasal cavities and promote regeneration of nasal mucosa as well as its vascu­larization and lubrication. Throughout history, multiple surgical procedures have been described that have sought the narrowing of the nasal cavity to allow the passage of air more physiologically. On the other hand, radical interventions have been proposed such as the closure of the nostrils to reduce symptoms and improve quality. This article summarizes the main proposed procedures along with their results and conclusions. Although most of the techniques described are no longer used today, it is important to know them since there are still patients who were subjected to them and may present complications and / or adverse effects.