4.3.13 Turbinate Reduction

We met with Otolaryngology yesterday. After two unsuccessful attempts at correcting Aimee's chronic eye infections and blocked tear ducts with Opthalmology (tear duct probe and stint procedure and topical steroid spray), we were referred to meet with Otolaryngology to discuss option C. After reviewing Aimee's situation the doctor felt that it would be best to proceed with doing a turbinate reduction in her nasal passages, steriod injection, and most likely do an adenoidectomy at the same time. The turbinates help to moisten and warm the air that you breath. They are often reduced in allergy patients due to swelling. In Aimee's case, it seems that her nasal passage has become increasingly narrow as she has grown. Her adenoids were only somewhat enlarged when her last x-ray was done by Pulmonary 18 months ago, but the doctor thought that they had most likely increased in size and are a contributing factor to her issues.

The hope is that by reducing the size of the surrounding tissue pressure will be relieved on the tear ducts where they enter the nose. Opening up her nasal passage may also help relieve some of her difficulty with sleep apnea (not all most likely since she will still have hypoventilation due to her low tone) and allow her to breath through her nose (mostly obstructed). May even reduce ear infections. Although we only know she has an ear infection when the drum ruptures and bleeds, so we are only for sure that she has had two.

All in all, the doctor feels that the procedure will benefit Aimee, although he did stress that it may not relieve her continual eye infections. I am very hopeful that it will, because option D involves restructuring her tear ducts and potentially adjusting facial structure. As always, going under anesthesia is a bit nerve wracking, but at least we know the drill! As long as she stays well, she is scheduled with the surgery center for the 23rd.