(Rhinaer® / Neurent™ / Neuromark® / ClariFix® Procedures)
What Is Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation?
Posterior nasal nerve (PNN) ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce chronic nasal symptoms such as runny nose and congestion.
It works by targeting small nerves inside the nose (posterior nasal nerves) that are responsible for producing excess mucus and triggering nasal symptoms.
This procedure can be performed using different technologies, including:
- Rhinaer® – uses radiofrequency (RF) energy
- Neurent™ / Neuromark® – use advanced RF energy to treat multiple nerve branches
- ClariFix® – uses controlled cold therapy (cryotherapy)
All methods are designed to safely reduce overactive nerve signals and improve nasal function.
Why Do People Need This Procedure?
PNN ablation may be recommended if you have:
- Chronic runny nose (rhinorrhea)
- Nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Postnasal drip
- Symptoms from chronic rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic)
- Persistent symptoms despite medications (nasal sprays, antihistamines, etc.)
These symptoms are often caused by overactive nerves in the nose that stimulate mucus production and swelling.
How Does It Work?
The posterior nasal nerves send signals that:
- Increase mucus production
- Cause nasal swelling and congestion
PNN ablation works by reducing these nerve signals:
- Radiofrequency (Rhinaer®, Neuromark®/Neurent™): gently heats and remodels the nerve tissue
- Cryotherapy (ClariFix®): uses controlled cold to temporarily disable the nerves
Both approaches:
- Decrease mucus production
- Reduce congestion
- Improve overall nasal comfort
Importantly, these treatments do not affect your sense of smell and do not involve removing tissue.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
In the Office (Awake Procedure)
This procedure is typically performed in the office and takes about 15–30 minutes.
Step-by-step overview:
- Numbing the nose
A topical anesthetic is applied inside the nose. In some cases, a small injection of local anesthetic may be used for added comfort. - Accessing the treatment area
A small device is gently placed into the back portion of the nasal cavity where the posterior nasal nerves are located. - Delivering treatment energy
- Rhinaer® / Neuromark® / Neurent™: deliver controlled radiofrequency energy
- ClariFix®: applies a brief, controlled freezing treatment
You may feel mild pressure, warmth, or a brief cold sensation depending on the technique used.
- Completion
The procedure is performed on both sides of the nose. No cutting, stitches, or packing are typically required.
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well with minimal downtime.
Common short-term effects:
- Mild nasal congestion or fullness
- Temporary increase in drainage
- Mild discomfort or tenderness
- Slight crusting
- With ClariFix®, some patients experience a brief “brain freeze” sensation during or shortly after treatment
These symptoms typically improve over several days to 1–2 weeks.
Recovery and Activity
- Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day
- Avoid heavy exertion for 24–48 hours
- Saline sprays or rinses are often recommended
- Continue prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise
When Will I Notice Improvement?
Many patients begin to notice improvement within 2–4 weeks, with continued benefit over 1–3 months as the nerves settle and healing occurs.
Benefits of PNN Ablation
- Minimally invasive, no incisions
- Performed in the office
- Targets the root cause of chronic rhinitis
- Reduces runny nose and congestion
- May decrease reliance on medications
Are There Any Risks?
PNN ablation is considered very safe, but possible risks include:
- Temporary congestion or discomfort
- Mild bleeding
- Crusting or dryness
- Temporary increase in nasal drainage
- Rarely, persistent symptoms or need for additional treatment
Your doctor will determine if this procedure is appropriate for you.
Is This Procedure Right for Me?
PNN ablation is best suited for patients with chronic rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic) who have ongoing symptoms despite medical therapy.
An in-office evaluation will help determine whether your symptoms are nerve-related and if you are a good candidate.
Summary
Posterior nasal nerve ablation is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic nasal symptoms by calming overactive nerves. It is performed comfortably in the office, requires little downtime, and provides lasting relief for many patients.
Post-Procedure Instructions
Nasal Care
- Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation
- (Rhinaer® / Neurent™ / Neuromark® / ClariFix® Procedures)
What Is Posterior Nasal Nerve Ablation?
Posterior nasal nerve (PNN) ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce chronic nasal symptoms such as runny nose and congestion.
It works by targeting small nerves inside the nose (posterior nasal nerves) that are responsible for producing excess mucus and triggering nasal symptoms.
This procedure can be performed using different technologies, including:
- Rhinaer® – uses radiofrequency (RF) energy
- Neurent™ / Neuromark® – use advanced RF energy to treat multiple nerve branches
- ClariFix® – uses controlled cold therapy (cryotherapy)
All methods are designed to safely reduce overactive nerve signals and improve nasal function.
Why Do People Need This Procedure?
PNN ablation may be recommended if you have:
- Chronic runny nose (rhinorrhea)
- Nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Postnasal drip
- Symptoms from chronic rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic)
- Persistent symptoms despite medications (nasal sprays, antihistamines, etc.)
These symptoms are often caused by overactive nerves in the nose that stimulate mucus production and swelling.
How Does It Work?
The posterior nasal nerves send signals that:
- Increase mucus production
- Cause nasal swelling and congestion
- PNN ablation works by reducing these nerve signals:
- Radiofrequency (Rhinaer®, Neuromark®/Neurent™): gently heats and remodels the nerve tissue
- Cryotherapy (ClariFix®): uses controlled cold to temporarily disable the nerves
Both approaches:
- Decrease mucus production
- Reduce congestion
- Improve overall nasal comfort
Importantly, these treatments do not affect your sense of smell and do not involve removing tissue.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
In the Office (Awake Procedure)
This procedure is typically performed in the office and takes about 15–30 minutes.
Step-by-step overview:
- Numbing the nose
A topical anesthetic is applied inside the nose. In some cases, a small injection of local anesthetic may be used for added comfort. - Accessing the treatment area
A small device is gently placed into the back portion of the nasal cavity where the posterior nasal nerves are located. - Delivering treatment energy
- Rhinaer® / Neuromark® / Neurent™: deliver controlled radiofrequency energy
- ClariFix®: applies a brief, controlled freezing treatment
NOTE: You may feel mild pressure, warmth, or a brief cold sensation depending on the technique used.
- Completion
The procedure is performed on both sides of the nose. No cutting, stitches, or packing are typically required.
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well with minimal downtime.
Common short-term effects:
- Mild nasal congestion or fullness
- Temporary increase in drainage
- Mild discomfort or tenderness
- Slight crusting
- With ClariFix®, some patients experience a brief “brain freeze” sensation during or shortly after treatment
- These symptoms typically improve over several days to 1–2 weeks.
Recovery and Activity
Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day
- Avoid heavy exertion for 24–48 hours
- Saline sprays or rinses are often recommended
- Continue prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise
When Will I Notice Improvement?
Many patients begin to notice improvement within 2–4 weeks, with continued benefit over 1–3 months as the nerves settle and healing occurs.
Benefits of PNN Ablation
- Minimally invasive, no incisions
- Performed in the office
- Targets the root cause of chronic rhinitis
- Reduces runny nose and congestion
- May decrease reliance on medications
Are There Any Risks?
PNN ablation is considered very safe, but possible risks include:
- Temporary congestion or discomfort
- Mild bleeding
- Crusting or dryness
- Temporary increase in nasal drainage
- Rarely, persistent symptoms or need for additional treatment
Your doctor will determine if this procedure is appropriate for you.
Is This Procedure Right for Me?
PNN ablation is best suited for patients with chronic rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic) who have ongoing symptoms despite medical therapy. An in-office evaluation will help determine whether your symptoms are nerve-related and if you are a good candidate.
Summary
Posterior nasal nerve ablation is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic nasal symptoms by calming overactive nerves. It is performed comfortably in the office, requires little downtime, and provides lasting relief for many patients.
Post-Procedure Instructions
Nasal Care
- Perform saline rinse (Neti pot or squeeze bottle) twice daily for 2 weeks
- Use a nasal moisturizing gel if dryness or crusting occurs
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid forceful nose blowing for 3–5 days
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24–48 hours
- Do not manipulate or pick inside the nose
Medications
- Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) as needed for discomfort
- Continue or restart nasal sprays 2 days after the procedure
What Is Normal
- Mild congestion or pressure
- Increased nasal drainage for several days
- Light spotting of blood
- Gradual improvement over several weeks
Bleeding
- Light red drainage is normal for 3–6 days
- If bleeding increases:
- Perform a saline rinse
- Blow your nose to remove clots
- Use 4 sprays of OTC Afrin (or decongestant spray) in each nostril every 4 hours as needed
- Pinch the nose closed firmly for 20 minutes
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Heavy or persistent bleeding
- Severe or worsening pain
- Fever (over 102°F) that is not responsive to medication
- Signs of infection
- No improvement after several weeks
- Use a nasal moisturizing gel if dryness or crusting occurs
Emergency Room Guidelines
If you need to go to the Emergency Room, please use the following guidelines
- Patients 16 and older: Centennial Medical Center Frisco
- Patients under 16: Children’s Medical Center Plano
