Which Patients Benefit the Most From Balloon Sinuplasty?

Sinuplasty has proven itself to be a very effective treatment for those dealing with chronic rhinosinusitis. Through this minimally invasive procedure, a tiny balloon is inserted into the blocked sinus cavity, inflated, deflated and then removed. As a result, the sinus passages are opened, allowing fluid to drain.

What is chronic rhinosinusitis?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 25 million Americans suffer from some type of chronic sinus problem. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) occurs when the nasal and sinus passages are inflamed or irritated for three months or longer. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including viruses and even sinus obstructions.

SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC RHINOSINUSITIS INCLUDE:

• Pain and pressure
• Cough
• Nasal drainage
• Congestion
• Ear pain and/ or discomfort
• Decreased sense of smell
• Low-grade fever

The latest clinical information on balloon sinuplasty

While balloon sinuplasty offers several advantages, it isn’t right for everyone. Recently, the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery announced a new clinical consensus of the best practices for the procedure. This consensus clarified the type of patients who receive the greatest benefit from balloon sinuplasty. This “game-changing clinical consensus statement” affects the way ENT physicians across the country will evaluate and treat patients.

PATIENTS WHO CAN BENEFIT THE MOST FROM BALLOON SINUPLASTY INCLUDE:

• Those who have had CT scans showing problems with blocked or inflamed sinuses.
• Those who have had chronic sinonasal symptoms for longer than three months
• Those with sinus problems who have also had previous sinus surgery.
• Those who need ongoing management of recurrent acute sinusitis.
• Those who need to have it as a complementary procedure to FESS (functional endoscopic sinus surgery).

THE PANEL ALSO OUTLINED CASES WHERE BALLOON SINUPLASTY IS NOT RECOMMENDED:

• It should NOT be used to manage or treat sleep apnea in patients who do not show any symptoms of sinus problems.
• It should NOT be done for patients who have nasal polyps.
• It’s NOT appropriate for patients without sinus/nasal symptoms and a normal CT of their sinuses.
• Balloon sinuplasty should NOT be used to manage headaches in patients who don’t have chronic sinusitis or recurrent acute sinusitis.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BALLOON SINUPLASTY?

There are several benefits of balloon sinuplasty. These include:

• Patients are able to work and regular activities almost immediately.
• Patients experience less bleeding.
• Patients can have the procedure performed in our office using local anesthesia.
• There is no tissue removal and no nasal packing.
• The majority of patients experience improvement even two years after their procedures.

Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose and Throat is dedicated to providing advanced treatments based on the latest clinical research.

We are constantly up-to-date on the most recent clinical guidelines and innovative breakthroughs that enable us to provide our patients with the highest level of service possible. By utilizing these techniques, we are able to deliver care in an efficient and compassionate manner.

If you’re not sure if you’re a candidate for balloon sinuplasty, or if you’re not sure why you’re having chronic sinus problems, please contact us. We’ll be happy to be partners in your care and answer any questions you may have.

Raleigh Capitol Ear, Nose, and Throat is the area’s premiere physician-owned ENT practice with six convenient locations throughout Wake County. Our board-certified physicians have extensive experience in treating both common and complex cases to help adults and children alike. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us.