Sphenopalatine artery rupture following posterior nasal nerve cryoablation: a rare but serious delayed complication

Iris Zhorov; Melissa Goldstein; Eric Carniol

doi:10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20260072

Authors

Iris Zhorov Department of Otolaryngology, Carniol Plastic Surgery, Summit, New Jersey, United States
Melissa Goldstein Department of Otolaryngology, Carniol Plastic Surgery, Summit, New Jersey, United States
Eric Carniol Department of Otolaryngology, Carniol Plastic Surgery, Summit, New Jersey, United States

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20260072

Keywords:

Chronic rhinitis, Posterior nasal nerve cryoablation, Sphenopalatine artery rupture, Delayed epistaxis, Minimally invasive rhinologic procedures, Postoperative complications

Abstract

Posterior nasal nerve (PNN) cryoablation is an emerging minimally invasive procedure for managing refractory chronic rhinitis. Although generally well-tolerated, complications can occur. This report presents the first documented case of sphenopalatine artery (SPA) rupture following PNN cryoablation, highlighting the need for vigilance in postoperative care. A 64-year-old female developed delayed epistaxis one month postoperatively, requiring emergent arterial ligation. This case underscores the importance of anatomical considerations, and the potential risks associated with this innovative treatment.

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