Balloon Sinuplasty has been FDA approved in 2005. Since that time, this innovative, minimally invasive treatment has become one of the most popular treatments performed by ENTs (ear, nose, and throat specialists). The procedure is performed on those who suffer from chronic sinusitis. A catheter containing a tiny balloon is inserted into the nasal pathways, inflated to dilate the passage and allow drainage. The area is then cleared with saline to remove any remaining mucus or other material. The entire procedure takes about one hour to complete.
A Balloon Sinuplasty is not a painful or difficult procedure. You will be resting comfortably on a reclined treatment chair, and will be relaxed and comfortable, with IV sedation. The nasal passages are numbed with anesthetic.
Once numbed, an endoscope (thin tube with a bright light on the end) is inserted so your ENT can evaluate the blockages and place the balloon correctly. A balloon catheter is then inserted through the nostril into the blocked area and inflated to open the passage. Your procedure will be pain-free, but you will feel pressure, which is reasonably easy to experience. A saline spray is used to clean away remaining mucus and other material, and the balloon is then deflated and removed. The procedure is now complete, and you are free to return home, with no need for a stay in the hospital or a stressful and painful recovery.
The recovery from this minimally invasive treatment is fast and simple. You can return to your usual activities within 24 hours in most cases. To gain the most benefit, sleep with your head elevated and avoid any aggressive physical activities such as workouts for a week or two.
This treatment achieves a noticeable improvement for those who suffer from chronic sinusitis. The benefits include:
