Also known as balloon sinus dilation, balloon sinuplasty is a less-invasive way to restore natural sinus drainage from infected sinuses—quickly, and in the office. Just like conventional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty permanently widens the outflow paths from the sinuses into the nose. With FESS, this is accomplished using small, precise cutting instruments.
How Does It Work?
Balloon sinuplasty utilizes a small, flexible balloon catheter to achieve the same goal. The catheter is gently advanced into the sinus opening and inflated, gently remodeling the drainage pathway. Since no tissue is removed, there is little bleeding and very minimal pain. Downtime is negligible, and patients are usually back to their normal activity level in 1-2 days.
How Common Is the Procedure?
More balloon sinuplasty procedures are performed at Midwest ENT Centre than at any other facility in the region. If you have been suffering from chronic sinus pressure or recurrent infections, it may very well be a great option for you. To learn more, watch the video below and call Midwest ENT Centre today to schedule a consultation.
The Procedure
Balloon Sinuplasty is typically performed in an outpatient setting. You’ll usually be given an oral sedative and a local anesthetic to help keep you comfortable while your ENT surgeon uses an endoscope to help guide the balloon catheter into your sinuses. The balloon is then inflated to enlarge the sinus opening. The goal is to enlarge your sinus opening to improve drainage and airflow permanently. Up to 95% of patients report a significant improvement in sinus symptoms following this procedure.
The Procedure:
STEP 1: A balloon catheter is inserted into the inflamed sinus.
STEP 2: The balloon is inflated to expand the sinus opening.
STEP 3: Saline is sprayed into the inflamed sinus to flush out the pus and mucus.
STEP 4: The system is removed, leaving the sinuses open.
If you are interested in Balloon Sinuplasty, speak with your doctor.
Call Midwest ENT Centre at (636) 441-3100 for more information or to schedule an appointment.