What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis (also called rhinosinusitis) is the name of the condition in which the lining of your sinuses becomes inflamed. The sinuses are air spaces behind the bones of the upper face, between the eyes and behind the forehead, nose and cheeks.
Normally, the sinuses drain through small openings into the inside of the nose. Anything that blocks the flow may cause a buildup of mucus in the sinuses. The blockage and inflammation of the sinus membranes can be infectious or non-infectious.
The symptoms caused by sinusitis may be quite uncomfortable. The signs and symptoms may include:
- Facial pain, pressure, congestion or fullness
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Discharge of yellow or green mucus from the nose
- Teeth pain
- Loss of the sense of smell or taste
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Bad breath
Types of Sinusitis
There are two main categories of sinusitis: acute and chronic.
Sinusitis is usually preceded by a cold, allergy attack or irritation from environmental pollutants. Often, the resulting symptoms, such as nasal pressure, nasal congestion, a “runny nose,” and fever, run their course in a few days. However, if symptoms persist, a bacterial infection or acute sinusitis may develop.
Most cases of sinusitis are acute (or sudden onset); however, if the condition occurs frequently or lasts three months or more, you may have chronic sinusitis.
Who is a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon Sinuplasty is a treatment option for patients with chronic sinusitis or recurrent acute sinusitis. If you suffer from the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty:
- Recurrent sinus infections that do not respond to medication
- Sinus pressure or pain
- Nasal congestion or obstruction
- Ongoing nasal discharge (runny nose)
- Loss of the sense of smell
How does Balloon Sinuplasty work?
Balloon Sinuplasty technology utilizes a small, flexible, sinus balloon catheter that is placed into the nose to reach the sinuses. The sinus balloon catheter is gradually inflated to gently restructure the previously blocked nasal passage, maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining and restoring normal sinus drainage and function. There is minimal bleeding, and many patients have been able to return to normal activities within 24 hours. Clinical research has indicated that the Balloon Sinuplasty system is a safe and effective tool in dilating blocked sinuses.
What are the benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty?
The benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty technology for treating chronic sinusitis symptoms include:
- Safe and Effective
While use of any surgical instrument involves some risk, clinical research has indicated the Balloon Sinuplasty system to be safe and effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis. - Minimally Invasive
The technology uses small, soft, flexible devices that enter entirely through the nostrils. These devices gently open blocked sinus openings, and in many cases, without tissue or bone removal. - Reduced Bleeding
Because in many instances no tissue or bone is removed when using this technology, there may be reduced bleeding associated with the procedure. - Improved Recovery Time
While recovery time varies with each patient, many people can return to normal activities within 24 hours. - Does Not Limit Treatment Options
This technology is an endoscopic tool and may be used with other medical therapies or sinus surgery techniques. It does not limit future treatment options if you have progressive disease.
As with use of any surgical instrument, there are risks, and results may vary from patient to patient. Talk with your doctor about your specific condition to find out if Balloon Sinuplasty surgery is right for you.
