Balloon Sinuplasty is a procedure that opens the sinus passageways with the goal of promoting drainage, which helps prevent recurring sinus infections. Unlike most surgical procedures, Balloon Sinuplasty does not involve any cutting or removal of bones. It uses a small, flexible balloon catheter to open blocked sinus passageways and facilitate drainage of the fluid that has built up.
Balloon Sinuplasty was approved in 2005 by the FDA and is increasingly performed by ENT physicians in their office under local anesthesia. It is a safe procedure and has been proven to be effective in reducing sinusitis symptoms.
Sinusitis can affect all age groups. Symptoms include facial pain or pressure, nasal stuffiness, nasal discharge, loss of smell, cough, congestion, fever, bad breath, fatigue and dental pain. There are two types of sinus infections. Acute sinus infection symptoms last up to four weeks and are usually caused by a virus or bacteria. Chronic sinus infection symptoms last 12 weeks or longer and are usually caused by prolonged inflammation.
Recovery time from Balloon Sinuplasty is fairly brief compared to traditional sinus surgery. Although recovery time varies with each individual patient, most patients who undergo the in-office procedure can return to normal activities and work within two days.
To determine the appropriate treatment plan for your sinusitis and to learn if you are a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty, your otolaryngologist will need to evaluate and diagnose your symptoms. Contact our office at 337-266-9820 to schedule an appointment.