The effect of single kinetic oscillation stimulation treatment on nonallergic rhinitis

OBJECTIVE: Kinetic oscillation stimulation (KOS) is a new treatment method for nonallergic rhinitis (NAR), usually delivered twice with a 2‐ to 4‐week interval, and thought to stabilize autonomous dysregulation in the nasal mucosa. We aimed to assess the long‐term (1 year) results following one KOS treatment amongst patients with NAR. METHODS: KOS was administered through a latex balloon placed in the patient's nasal cavity. The balloon is connected to a device that fills the balloon with air pulses, thus vibrating the balloon for 10 min per side. Outcomes were evaluated through patient‐reported outcome measures (Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test 22 [SNOT‐22], Total Nasal Symptom Score [TNSS], Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation [NOSE], and 15D) and measures of patency (rhinomanometry, acoustic rhinometry, peak nasal inspiratory flow [PNIF], and clinical inferior turbinate size). Pre‐treatment actions were repeated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS: In all 49 patients, we found significant improvement in the SNOT‐22, NOSE, and TNSS scores. At 12 months, SNOT‐22 improved from 44 to 34, NOSE from 60 to 45, TNSS from 8 to 7, and PNIF from 80 to 100 L/min (p < .005 for all). We observed no major complications. CONCLUSION: One KOS treatment appears to provide NAR patients with a subjective symptom improvement for at least 1 year, thus possibly decreasing the need for invasive treatment methods. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.