Balloon Sinuplasty Technology
Follows concept of cardia balloon angioplasty in that it dilates the obstructed sinus outflow tracts while minimizing collateral damage to surrounding mucosa and structures more effectively and safely
The Technique
3 key components:
- Guide wire
- Guide catheter
- Balloon
Step 1: Guide wire is passed into the obstructed/diseased sinus with the help of an angled guide catheter (Figure 1).
Step 2: Proper cannulation of the sinus is then confirmed with transillumination using a lighted guide wire (Figure 2).
Step 3: The balloon is then railroaded over the guide wire to sit across the obstructed sinus outflow tract and inflated to dilate it (Figure 3).
Step 4: Irrigation of the sinus may be followed, before the entire system is removed (Figure 4).
Who are the Suitable Candidates?
- Patients who has mild to moderate chronic sinusitis who have not been operated on before.
- Sinusitis involving the frontal sinus due to its increased propensity for scarring and stenosis
- Patients suffering from barometric pressure or coagulopathy
However, it is
- Not suitable for extensive nasal polyposis or sino-nasal tumors
- Not suitable for those patients with large fungus balls within the sinuses
Advantages
- Safe and effective – Studies demonstrate that it may be safe and effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis
- Clinical efficacy – Symptoms improvement
Criticisms
- A single use, disposable set
- High cost of devices
