Balloon sinuplasty, also referred to as balloon catheter dilation surgery, is a procedure recommended for people with chronic sinus problems.
Unlike other sinus surgeries, balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require the cutting or removal of any bone or tissue.
You may be a suitable candidate for this surgery if you
Experience chronic and recurring sinus infections
Have mild to moderate chronic sinus inflammation and have not been operated on before
Have not responded well to medication used to treat your sinus problems
Suffer from the symptoms listed above
All About Balloon Sinuplasty
Benefits of a Balloon Sinuplasty
Minimally invasive
The procedure is relatively safe and does not require the surgeon to make an incision on your nose. Additionally, it uses a small, flexible device to gently remove the blockage in the sinuses, limiting your discomfort.
Quick and convenient
A balloon sinuplasty takes approximately 1 hour to complete and is an outpatient procedure – it is performed in our clinic and does not require you to spend a night at the hospital.
Reduced bleeding
There is reduced bleeding associated with the procedure as there is no need to remove any tissue or bone.
Minimal recovery time
While recovery time varies, you can expect to resume your routine and carry out your usual activities after 1 week.
Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
The balloon sinuplasty system consists of 3 key pieces of equipment
Guide wire
Guide catheter
Balloon
The doctor will insert the guide wire into the obstructed sinus with the help of an angled guide catheter (Figure 1).
A small balloon is then guided through the nasal passage, and into the sinus cavity (Figure 2).
Once the balloon is correctly positioned, it is inflated to dilate the obstructed sinus (Figure 3).
Your doctor may flush out the build-up in your sinus before removing the system (Figure 4).
What to Expect After a Balloon Sinuplasty
What to Do After a Balloon Sinuplasty?
Sleep with your head elevated
Sleeping with your head elevated helps to reduce nasal congestion. To do this, prop at least 2 pillows beneath your head, ensuring that it is higher than your chest.
Rinse your nose
Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution clears your nose congestion and can speed up recovery time.
Take the prescribed medication
Make sure that you take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid self-medicating and consult your doctor before consuming any over-the-counter pain reliever.
Avoid blowing your nose
To prevent bleeding, hold off blowing your nose. If possible, avoid blowing your nose for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Possible Side Effects of Balloon Sinuplasty
Some side effects associated with the procedure include
Bleeding
Tenderness in the nose, cheek or forehead
No response to treatment
Congestion
Inflammation
In rare cases, balloon sinuplasty can worsen a patient’s symptoms and alter the appearance of his nose.
Balloon sinuplasty is not suitable for all patients. The procedure is not recommended for those with nasal polyps or large fungus balls within their sinuses.
Patients suffering from blocked sinuses may opt for alternative treatment like endoscopic sinus surgery.
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