Next generation chronic rhinitis treatment device gains expanded Medicare coverage

Aerin Medical Inc. has introduced its next-generation RhinAer+ device for treating chronic rhinitis, coinciding with new coverage from UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans for treatment targeting the posterior nasal nerve, the company announced.

The RhinAer+ device uses temperature- and impedance-controlled radiofrequency to treat multiple anatomical drivers of chronic rhinitis, a condition that affects millions of Americans and can significantly impact sleep, quality of life and productivity. The updated system features an atraumatic tip for improved access, a reinforced malleable shaft for greater precision and an ergonomic handle to support bilateral treatment.

“The development of this product was guided by extensive physician feedback, informed by RhinAer experience in over 50,000 cases, and leveraged a proven platform characterized in 20 peer-reviewed publications,” said Matt Brokaw, president and CEO of Aerin Medical. “With expanded coverage from Cigna and UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage and multiple multi-year studies confirming sustained results with RhinAer technology, we’re seeing continued validation from both the clinical and payor communities.”

Coverage under UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage policy for CPT 31242 is effective immediately, positioning the updated device for wider patient access in the growing market for minimally invasive nasal procedures.

“RhinAer+ is a meaningful advancement in how physicians like me treat chronic rhinitis,” said Mary Ashmead, a board-certified otolaryngologist. “The enhancements allow us to better tailor treatment for our patients, helping more of them experience lasting relief without ineffective cycles of medication or invasive surgery.”

Advances in treatment for chronic nasal conditions

Chronic rhinitis and related nasal airway disorders have increasingly been addressed through minimally invasive procedures that target nerve signals and tissue inflammation without the need for surgical intervention. In recent years, new technologies have been developed to treat the posterior nasal nerve, a key driver of symptoms such as persistent congestion, postnasal drip and rhinorrhea. These treatments aim to interrupt abnormal nerve signaling associated with chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, offering an alternative to long-term medication use.

Clinical research has shown sustained benefits from targeted nerve therapies, minimizing the need for decongestants, antihistamines and nasal steroids that often provide only temporary relief. The use of radiofrequency energy to precisely treat affected tissue has gained traction due to shorter procedure times, the ability to perform treatments in-office and minimal downtime for patients. As insurers expand coverage, more patients are gaining access to these interventions, which can improve quality of life and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

Additionally, the growing understanding of the anatomical contributors to nasal obstruction — including turbinate swelling and nerve dysfunction — has led to comprehensive treatment strategies that address multiple causes simultaneously. Advances in device design have focused on improving physician control and patient comfort, making procedures more adaptable to varied anatomy. These innovations are part of a broader shift toward personalized treatment approaches that target the root causes of chronic nasal symptoms, rather than relying solely on symptom management.