In our previous blog, we shed some light on the advances of balloon sinuplasty and the relief it is able to provide for millions who suffer from chronic sinusitis. Here, we go further in-depth about how the procedure works and the numerous benefits it poses for patients.
How Does Balloon Sinuplasty Work?
This non-invasive sinus surgery allows the doctor to physically widen the congested nasal passages with a balloon catheter and saline solution to clear out the obstruction. The procedure dilates the opening of the major nasal sinuses to drain them of built up fluids, promoting natural drainage in the future.
What Does The Procedure Look Like?
Balloon sinuplasty is done in office using general or local anesthesia to help put you at ease for this quick and simple procedure. This allows you to be able to relax without having to go fully under. Once the anesthesia has been issued, a long, thin tube with a light and camera at the end is inserted into the nasal passages.
When the cavity has been reached, the small balloon catheter is placed over the endoscope wire and makes its way up the nasal passageway as well. The balloon is then slowly inflated to fill the sinus and pushes against the sinus wall to widen the passageway. The fully inflated balloon allows the cavities to be flushed out with saline rinse, then it is removed to let the sinus to be able to drain on its own.
The non-invasive sinus surgery is usually done in about 20 minutes, and provides long-lasting relief that frees you from the endless cycle of home remedies that only ease the symptoms for a short period of time.
Rest assured, the procedure is not painful and the most common sensation felt is merely slight pressure.
How Long Is The Recovery?
In addition to being a quick procedure, recovery is also a snap! Afterwards, you can head home and within 24-48 hours you can go back to your daily routine, with the added bonus of not having to worry about sinus discomfort and pain.
Most people feel tired and a little tender afterwards, but with some resting and relaxing they are back to normal and better than before.
How Safe Is It?
Receiving FDA approval in 2005, balloon sinuplasty has quickly become the most popular and commonly conducted type of sinus surgery.
With high success rates and low risks of complications, it’s not hard to see why this procedure is the popular choice.
With non-invasive sinus surgery, there is:
- Quicker procedure, less time spent in the office
- Faster recovery time
- Minimized damage to sinus tissues, membranes, bonus, and structures
- Less post-op appointments
- No hassle dealing with stitches
- Less risk of post-op infections
- Lower risk of scarring and continuous inflammation
- Less risk of having a reaction to anesthesia
Traditional sinus surgery uses invasive techniques which require the small bones in the nose to either be broken or removed in order to flush out the congestion in the sinuses. Balloon sinuplasty avoids that by simply applying pressure and widening the passageway to allow the built up fluid to drain naturally. Learn more about the science by downloading our free white paper here.
Take our Balloon Sinuplasty Quiz to see if you would be a good candidate for this procedure. If you are eligible or have any questions, give us a call so we can find the best solution to say goodbye to your chronic sinusitis and pain!
