Sinusitis is a chronic health problem affecting more than 37 million people in the U.S. The condition can impact people’s physical, functional and emotional quality of life. So, it’s not surprising that information about a new treatment option has generated a great deal of interest among sinusitis patients in the community served by Botsford Hospital.
The balloon sinuplasty procedure is an endoscopic surgical procedure that offers advantages over traditional sinus surgery.
Balloon sinuplasty works similar to angioplasty. With angioplasty, doctors insert a flexible tube called a catheter with a balloon on its end into arteries. The balloon is inflated to expand clogged arteries. Sinuplasty also uses a balloon catheter. The device is guided through the nostrils into the blocked sinus. The balloon is then inflated just enough to expand the sinus area, causing the opening to become wider and allowing for easier breathing.
While use of any surgical instrument involves some risk, studies have shown balloon sinuplasty to be safe and effective in relieving sinusitis symptoms. In many cases, no tissue or bone is removed. Patients benefit from less bleeding and rarely need uncomfortable cotton or gauze packing in the nasal area during recovery. While recovery time varies with each patient, many people can return to normal activity within 24 hours.
Botsford ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists, also known as otolaryngologists, are all qualified to perform balloon sinuplasty.
Interested In Sinuplasty?
To find physicians certified in performing the procedure and who can answer your questions, call for a physician referral at 1-877-477-DOC1 (3621).