Balloon Sinuplasty is a surgical treatment option for patients who suffer from chronic sinusitis that can’t be managed medically. It’s safe, effective, and less invasive than other procedures, requiring no cutting of bone or tissue.
Sinusitis is the most prevalent chronic condition in the U.S., with an estimated 37 million people suffering from this persistent inflammation of the sinuses. It causes a variety of unpleasant symptoms including sore throat, stuffiness, facial pain and pressure, loss of smell, coughing, headache and fever. Chronic sinusitis is caused by infections, nasal polyps, deviated septum or other structural abnormalities. Patients often struggle to find an effective treatment plan that offers relief. Home remedies and medications work for some, but for others, surgery is the best option for treating this condition.
Traditional sinus surgery entails the cutting and removal of bone and tissue, and patients are subjected to a recovery period following the procedure. By contrast, Balloon Sinuplasty is minimally invasive, and has few postoperative side effects or complications. It is performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. The surgeon inserts a balloon catheter into the inflamed sinus passage, and inflates it to expand the sinus opening and widen the walls of the passageway without affecting the sinus lining. Saline is sprayed into the cavity in order to flush out mucus and pus, and the catheter is removed. The sinuses are now open, allowing for normal breathing and drainage of fluids. A majority of patients undergoing this procedure report significant improvement in sinusitis symptoms, without any adverse effects.
As quick and effective as Balloon Sinuplasty is, the procedure may not be right for you. Nasal polyps and other obstructions will likely require treatment with conventional endoscopic surgery. Talk with your doctor to find out if Balloon Sinuplasty is a valid option for you.
If you or someone you care for is experiencing problems their nose, please contact our office at (717) 728-9700 to schedule an appointment.
