Nasal polyps, three on each side of the nose (upper, middle, and lower), are structures responsible for humidifying, warming, and removing dust from the air. In some cases (due to allergies, infections, or congenital conditions), they can become larger than they should be, hindering breathing and potentially causing headaches and sinusitis.

Superior turbinate pathologies are rarely seen, while inferior and, less frequently, middle turbinate pathologies are most common.

The most common pathology of the middle turbinate is turbinate bullosa, which is an excessive enlargement of the turbinate filled with air-filled cells. Surgical removal of a portion of it is usually sufficient for treatment.

The most common pathology of the inferior turbinate is turbinate hypertrophy. This is often caused by nasal cartilage deviations, allergies, or pregnancy-related growths in the nasal turbinates. Several methods exist to reduce the size of the turbinates. The most common and safe procedures include removal of either the excess bone or tissue portion of the turbinate, and radiofrequency ablation. The key is to avoid damaging the turbinate mucosa and to adequately address the underlying cause of nasal congestion.