If you’re suffering from chronic sinus infections in Mechanicsburg and medications aren’t relieving your symptoms, your ENT specialist might recommend sinus surgery. The thought of sharp objects invading your nostrils and sinus cavity probably sounds like a scene straight out of a horror movie, but rest assured – this is not “Halloween: Part 27.” In truth, sinus surgery may be less invasive than you think.
Balloon Sinuplasty
Traditional sinus surgery is nothing to sneeze at. It probably conjures images of scalpels and other tools best left in Dr. Frankenstein’s lab. It does involve cutting and removal of bone and cartilage, and a sometimes-painful recover period where you’ll spend quite a bit of time in bed, with your head elevated and packing in your nose. Not the most attractive look, and there is definitely some pain and discomfort afterwards. Fortunately, many sinusitis patients in Mechanicsburg and throughout the U.S. have an alternative treatment option available.
First approved by the FDA in 2005, Balloon Sinuplasty – also known as balloon catheter dilation – is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure used to treat blocked sinuses easily and successfully. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis in your Mechanicsburg ear, nose, and throat doctor’s office using a local anesthetic. During the procedure, your doctor uses an endoscopic instrument to place a wire catheter in the blocked sinus passage. Once the wire is positioned correctly, a small balloon attached to the tip is gently inflated, dilating and widening the passageway to restore its normal shape and allow for fluid drainage. Debris and mucus are flushed away, and the balloon is deflated and removed. The majority of patients experience an immediate improvement in flow and drainage.
Balloon Sinuplasty has exploded in popularity over the past decade, having gained a reputation as a safe and effective treatment option for chronic sinusitis and other nasal conditions. There is very little discomfort with the procedure, and most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a day or two. ENT doctors are turning to balloon catheter dilation because it is a fast and uncomplicated procedure that offers immediate and long-term relief with few post-surgical complications. Compared to traditional sinus surgery, there is less pain and bleeding and no need for medications afterward.
Every case of sinusitis is different, so you’ll need to consult with your Mechanicsburg ENT specialist to see if the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure is the right option for you.
