Balloon Sinuplasty for Sinusitis

Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology is a FDA-cleared, endoscopic, catheter-based system for patients suffering from sinusitis. The technology uses a small, flexible, Sinus Balloon Catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways, restoring normal sinus drainage and function. When the sinus balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and widens the walls of the passageway while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining.

Steps in using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology

The technology is used by one of our qualified Ear, Nose, and Throat physicians

The Benefits in Using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology

Safe and Effective

While use of any surgical instrument involves some risk, clinical studies have 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. As a result, the need for uncomfortable nasal packing may also be eliminated.

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 using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system is right for you

Balloon Sinuplasty In-Office

Balloon Sinuplasty is now available to eligible patients as a procedure performed in your doctor’s office, under local anesthesia. Your physician will recommend the best approach for you.

Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty In-Office:

• Local Anesthesia
  Balloon Sinuplasty In-Office is an option for patients who decline or are ineligible for general anesthesia.
• Fast Recovery
  While recovery time varies with each patient, most patients who undergo the in-office procedure can return to normal activities and work within 2 days.1
• Comfortable Surroundings
  Experience the procedure in the comfort of your physician’s office rather than a hospital operating room.
• High Patient Satisfaction
  The majority of patients who had Balloon Sinuplasty In-Office would recommend the procedure to family and friends.1
• Potential for Significant Cost Savings
  Some eligible patients may have lower out-of-pocket costs if the procedure is performed in a lower cost of care setting, such as a physician office.

Balloon Sinuplasty Video Animation

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Sinusitis Overview

Sinusitis affects 37 million people in the U.S. each year, making it one of the most common health problems. Sinusitis is more prevalent than heart disease or asthma, and it has a greater impact on quality of life than chronic back pain or congestive heart failure. Symptoms may significantly affect people physically, functionally, and emotionally.

The Role of the Sinuses

To understand sinusitis, it is important to first learn about your sinuses.

 

The sinuses are air spaces behind the bones of the upper face, between the eyes and behind the forehead, nose and cheeks. The sinuses are covered with a mucus layer and cells that contain little hairs on their surfaces called cilia. These help trap and push out bacteria and pollutants.

Each sinus has an opening that allows mucous to drain - this drainage is essential to keeping your sinuses working well and you healthy. Anything that obstructs the flow may cause a buildup of mucus in the sinuses and trigger sinusitis symptoms.

Experts agree that healthy sinuses are a key to a good quality of life and that unhealthy sinuses may cause some unwanted complications.

Sinusitis Defined

Sinusitis is defined as an inflammation of the sinus lining commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections and structural issues such as ostial (sinus opening) blockage. Symptoms include nasal congestion, facial discomfort, nasal discharge, headache, and fatigue.

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 (more than 4 times each year) you may have recurrent acute sinusitis. If your sinusitis symptoms last 12 weeks or more, you may have chronic sinusitis.

Facts About Sinusitis

• Sinusitis affects approximately 14% of the adult U.S. population.
• Sinusitis affects 17% of women and 10% of men each year.
• Chronic sinusitis (not including acute sinusitis) results annually in an estimated 7 million physician office visits.1-4
• Direct healthcare expenditures due to sinusitis cost are well over $8 billion each year.
• Sinusitis is also responsible for a 38% loss of workplace productivity.
• Total restricted activity days due to sinusitis are over 58 million per year.