A balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure performed at our office locations in Santa Monica and Torrance CA used to treat chronic sinusitis. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining within the paranasal sinuses. Once inflamed, the sinus cavities become a fertile ground for viruses, bacteria, and occasionally fungi to grow, resulting in infection. If it becomes chronic there may be a structural problem in the nose or sinuses. In those cases, a balloon sinuplasty may be recommended.
A balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure during which a thin balloon catheter is inserted into the nose. The balloon is gradually inflated to relieve blockages and widen the sinus pathways. The goal of a balloon sinuplasty is to enlarge the opening of the sinuses, reduce blockage and improve sinus drainage.
What Is Balloon Sinus Dilation?
Balloon Sinus Dilation is another term for balloon sinuplasty. The procedure is performed in the office to open sinus passageways that have become blocked and minimize the symptoms of chronic sinusitis.
What Happens During A Santa Monica Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinus dilation is performed in the office using local anesthetic and possibly a mild sedative. The procedure involves placing a small catheter, or tube, into the nose. The tiny tube is progressed to the opening of the sinus cavity. A balloon containing saline is held at the end of the catheter. Once just inside the opening of the sinuses, the balloon is slowly inflated (dilated). This inflation of the balloon increases the size of the passageway up to six times its current size. After the nasal passageway has been increased, the balloon is deflated and removed. Patients can leave the office and safely drive themselves home.
Candidacy For A Balloon Sinuplasty
A consultation and review of your medical history are necessary to determine if a balloon sinuplasty is right for you. Your ear, nose, and throat doctor will also either review previous CT scans or order CT scans to obtain a high-definition image of your nose and sinus cavity.
General benchmarks that may indicate candidacy for balloon sinus dilation include:
- Sinusitis symptoms that have lasted more than 3 months.
- Recurrent sinus infections that last ten days or longer and occur three or more times a year.
- You may be a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty even if you’ve had previous sinus surgery.
- Individuals with a deviated septum may benefit from a balloon sinuplasty although this procedure does not correct the structure of that part of the nose.
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Benefits Of Balloon Sinuplasty
Unlike traditional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty does not require incisions, or any removal of bone or tissue, although, in certain cases, it may be used in conjunction with traditional surgery. The procedure utilizes small balloons placed in key places in the nose and sinus, which are then dilated to expand the sinus pathways. It may be an effective, lasting option for some patients whose symptoms do not resolve with medication.
Balloon sinuplasty has many advantages over traditional procedures. Benefits may include:
- Absence of surgical incisions
- No damage to surrounding tissue
- Lack of serious complications
- Shorter recovery time
- Reduced bleeding
Although balloon sinuplasty is an effective treatment for relieving many sinus problems, and has no reported serious complications, it is not appropriate for everyone. Balloon sinuplasty cannot be performed on patients who have extensive scarring of the sinuses, ethmoid sinusitis or nasal polyps.
Risks Of Balloon Sinuplasty
Since balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, risks are minimal but may include: bleeding, infection or swelling. The great majority of patients experience relief from the symptoms of sinusitis, soon after a balloon sinuplasty procedure. Studies indicate that most patients experience continued sinus health for up to 2 years after the procedure.
How Much Pain Is Expected After A Balloon Sinuplasty?
The level of discomfort during balloon sinus dilation is reportedly only about a 2 on a pain scale of 1 to 10. After the procedure, most patients encounter very little, if any discomfort. If you are concerned about post-treatment symptoms, talk with your doctor about how to manage comfort using over-the-counter medication or other remedies.
Recovery From A Balloon Sinus Dilation
Recovery after a balloon sinuplasty is minimal. Other than a small amount of bloody discharge, patients are unlikely to notice other side effects of treatment. Within 24 to 48 hours, most patients have fully resumed their normal daily activities.
Is Balloon Sinus Dilation Covered By Medical Insurance?
Balloon sinuplasty is now covered by most major insurance carriers. The staff at the Daneshrad Clinic will determine insurance coverage and any associated costs with the patient prior to the procedure.
Are The Effects Of Balloon Sinuplasty Treatment Permanent?
Balloon sinuplasty is equivalent to traditional sinus surgery in efficacy and permanence. They are both considered permanent treatment in the vast majority of patients.
How Long Does The Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure Take?
Balloon sinuplasty is a relatively quick procedure. Most patients will be finished within an hour with approximately half of that time being used to anesthetize the nose.
Schedule A Santa Monica Balloon Sinuplasty Consultation
To learn more about balloon sinus dilation at the Daneshrad Clinic, call 310.453.6500. We proudly serve patients from Santa Monica, Torrance, Los Angeles and surrounding areas, including Brentwood, Malibu, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Pacific Palisades, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Palos Verdes.