Chronic sinusitis symptoms can make you miserable and impact your
quality of life. In order to get relief, you need to make the right
treatment decision with your doctor.
Over the last 2 years the
technology has emerged as a new complement to existing approaches.
The information below summarizes the primary approaches for
treating chronic sinusitis.
Medical Therapy
Sinusitis is typically treated first with medication. Treatment
with antibiotics or topical nasal steroid sprays is often
successful in reducing mucosal swelling, fighting infection, and
relieving obstructions of the sinus opening (ostium). Inhaling
steam or use of saline nasal sprays or drops can also help relieve
sinus discomfort.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS)
The goals of sinus surgery are to clear blocked sinuses restoring
normal sinus drainage and to preserve normal anatomy and mucosal
tissue. Specialized instruments are placed into the nose along
with a small endoscope to help the surgeon see inside the nose and
nasal cavities.
Traditional Instrumentation
Sinus surgery with traditional instrumentation removes bone and
tissue to enlarge the sinus opening. The removal of bone and
tissue may lead to post-operative pain, scarring, and bleeding.
Uncomfortable nasal packing may be required to control the
bleeding.
The Balloon Sinuplasty™
Sinus surgery with 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.