Richmond ENT demonstrates an effective new treatment for Chronic Rhinitis
Richmond ENT is proud to announce its role as a clinical study center in a major national research trial evaluating a new, minimally invasive treatment for chronic rhinitis—a condition marked by persistent runny nose, congestion, post-nasal drip, coughing, and nasal irritation.
Dr. Michael Armstrong, Otolaryngologist and Founder of Richmond ENT, served as a Principal Investigator in the multicenter PARAGON Study, which evaluated posterior nasal nerve (PNN) ablation using the Neuromark® radiofrequency device . The study’s two-year outcomes were recently published in Ear, Nose & Throat Journal.
Why This Research Matters
Chronic rhinitis affects millions of patients and often persists despite allergy medications, nasal sprays, or avoidance strategies. Traditional surgical nerve procedures required general anesthesia and carried meaningful risks.
The Neuromark system allows physicians to precisely disrupt the posterior nasal nerve, which plays a key role in excessive nasal drainage and congestion—using an in-office procedure under local anesthesia.
Key Study Findings (2-Year Results)
In the PARAGON Study:
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94% of patients completed two-year follow-up
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Patients experienced statistically significant and durable symptom improvement
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Improvements were seen in:
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Runny nose and congestion
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Post-nasal drip and cough
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Nasal obstruction and sleep quality
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Ear pressure and Eustachian tube symptoms
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No serious device-related adverse events were reported during long-term follow-up
Importantly, patients with both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis benefited similarly from treatment.
Insurance Coverage
The Neuromark posterior nasal nerve ablation procedure is currently covered by Medicare and Cigna health insurance when medical criteria are met.
Coverage depends on individual plan details and medical necessity. Our team will review your insurance benefits and obtain any required authorizations before treatment.
Richmond ENT: First in Virginia
Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Robert Thomas are among the first physicians in Virginia to offer posterior nasal nerve ablation with the Neuromark device—bringing research-backed innovation directly to patients in Central Virginia.
Richmond ENT’s participation reflects the practice’s ongoing commitment to evidence-based medicine, clinical research, and patient-centered innovation.
Dr. Robert Thomas:
“We’re excited to offer a treatment that’s supported by strong two-year clinical follow-up. For many patients, reducing chronic drainage and congestion can mean better sleep, fewer interruptions at work, and a better overall quality of life.”