Intranasal Steroids in Rhinology: The Changing Role of Intraturbinal Injection

Abstract

Intraturbinal injection of repository corticosteroid has been widely used by otolaryngologists for over four decades. The potential for visual loss when retinal embolization or vasospasm complicate this procedure and the introduction of topical nasal steroid preparations have gradually reduced its usage and reshaped the role of intraturbinal steroid injection in the management of a variety of rhinologic disorders. A review by the author of twenty-five years’ experience, including over thirteen thousand intraturbinal corticosteroid injections, shows no visual complications in this large series. However, a decline in the use of this procedure was noted, possibly influenced by several factors. Appropriate roles for intraturbinal steroid injection and topical corticosteroid nasal sprays are suggested.