Cryotherapy
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy (also known as “cold therapy”) is the application of a probe at freezing temperatures to destroy abnormal or diseased tissues. The use of cryotherapy for the treatment of nasal conditions was first reported many decades ago. Although it was felt to be quite effective, surgeons used it less frequently, as other, more convenient, technologies were introduced. Recently, a new device for intranasal cryotherapy was introduced for the treatment of chronic rhinitis. This device, called “Clarifix,” from Arrinex, is designed to apply the freezing treatment to posterior nasal nerves during a simple office procedure.
Am I candidate for cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy of the posterior nasal nerves (the Clarifix procedure) has been shown to reduce both nasal drainage and nasal congestion in patient with chronic rhinitis. The ideal patient has tried various treatments, including topical nasal steroids and other topical nasal treatments (ipratropium and azelastine) with little or no relief.
If you have any of these symptoms, you may be a candidate for this treatment:
- Watery, runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Congestion in the morning
- Post nasal drip
- Frequent throat clearing
How is the procedure preformed?
This procedure is performed during a simple office procedure visit. There is no need for sedation or general anesthesia. Total visit time is 30 minutes, and because there is no sedation or general anesthesia, patients may return to normal activity immediately after leaving the office.
What are patients saying about cryotherapy?
Read our patient success story.
