Balloon Sinuplasty (Balloon Sinus Dilation) is a treatment option for recurrent and persistent sinusitis sufferers!
Impact of Sinusitis
More than 37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis every year, making it one of the most common health conditions in the country. Traditionally, those who suffer from the pain, pressure and other symptoms of recurring and persisting sinus infection have two routes to relief:
- Medical therapy (antibiotics, steroids, etc.)
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)
Qualified patients have another treatment option, a simple office procedure called balloon sinus dilation.
Balloon Sinus Dilation – Instant Relief that Lasts
Balloon sinus dilation is a minimally invasive treatment option that can be performed by several of our physicians right in their offices. The objective of balloon sinus dilation is to reshape anatomy to expand sinus pathways and restore drainage. The procedure utilizes small balloons placed in key places in the nose and sinus, which are then dilated to expand the sinus pathways. It may be an effective, lasting option for some patients whose symptoms do not resolve with medication.
The balloon sinus dilation procedure may not require general anesthesia, and in many cases the patient is able to resume normal activities within 24 hours. Our physicians can determine if your condition is one that may benefit from balloon sinus dilation and can help you understand the risks and benefits of this treatment option.
Our St. Louis Metro area physicians are trained and experienced users of balloon sinus dilation technologies. Make an appointment today to determine if balloon sinus dilation is right for you!
What Is Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis is a widespread condition affecting 37 million Americans. This inflammation of the sinuses occurs when the sinus opening becomes blocked, preventing mucus from draining properly. It causes cold-like symptoms that include congestion, runny nose, sore throat, facial pain and swelling, loss of smell or taste, bad breath, fatigue and headache.
It is most often caused by viral infections, but can also occur as a result of nasal polyps, a deviated septum or head trauma. Medical solutions work for some, but others continue to suffer despite numerous attempts using a variety of treatments. Balloon Sinuplasty may be the answer.
What’s Different About Balloon Sinuplasty?
Conventional sinus surgical procedures involve cutting and excision of bone and tissue, a process that may cause pain and scarring and requires a recovery period.
In comparison, Balloon Sinuplasty is quick (the average operating time is 73 minutes) and relatively painless, and has a lower risk of complications or side effects. It is FDA-approved and considered a safe alternative to endoscopic sinus surgery.
How Is Balloon Sinuplasty Performed?
Balloon Sinuplasty is typically performed in an outpatient setting. You’ll be given either a local or general anesthetic before a balloon catheter is inserted into your sinus cavity. The balloon is then inflated in order to enlarge the sinus opening and widen the walls of the nasal passages.
A saline solution is sprayed into the cavity to flush out mucus and other debris; the catheter is then removed. The end result is open sinuses that enable normal breathing and drainage of fluids. Up to 95 percent of patients report a significant improvement in sinus symptoms following this procedure.
If you are interested in Balloon Sinuplasty, speak with your doctor or an ENT specialist. A qualified physician will review your medical history and help you determine which sinus treatment options are best for you.
Call Sound Health Services for more information or to schedule an appointment.