Balloon Sinuplasty: Overview
The symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis can severely impact quality of life. Many of these symptoms can be caused by improper sinus drainage, because the sinus openings are either too small, or they are blocked. If your symptoms are difficult to control with medications alone, your doctor may recommend surgery to improve sinus drainage. One such procedure, Balloon Sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive surgical option for the treatment of sinusitis. Balloon Sinuplasty is clinically proven to be safe, effective, and long lasting. During Balloon Sinuplasty, a small, flexible, balloon catheter is inserted into the nose, and into the sinus opening. When the balloon on the catheter is inflated, it gently restructures and widens the sinus pathway. With the pathway enlarged, the sinus can once again drain properly. If you have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis and are not responding well to medications, you may be a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that can occur during Balloon Sinuplasty. Possible complications may include post-operative bleeding, pain and swelling, infection, or allergic reactions to anesthesia, or other medications administered during the procedure. It is important to discuss these risks and complications, along with any other questions you may have during your consultation. Experience has shown that many patients with recurring or persistent sinusitis, can be treated with Balloon Sinuplasty. Only your doctor can tell you if this procedure is a viable option for treating sinusitis.
Post-Op (Hospital)
After the balloon sinuplasty procedure, you are moved to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for any complications. The average procedure takes about two hours to perform, and patients can return home shortly after. Most patients are able to resume normal activities immediately, however your doctor may recommend you refrain from very strenuous activities for a week after the treatment. Overwhelmingly, most patients enjoy significant relief from their sinus symptoms after undergoing the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure. Clinical research shows continued improvement for up to two years after surgery, which is comparable to traditional sinus surgery. Hundreds of thousands of balloon sinuplasty procedures have been performed, and the data shows this procedure may be very safe with minimal complications.