For those who experience chronic sinus infections, there is a solution called Balloon Sinuplasty. This procedure works by inflating and flushing out the sinuses so you can breathe easier and experience fewer symptoms. Below we review some of the other benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty.
No Incisions Are Necessary
Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally-invasive procedure, meaning there is no need to make any incisions, unlike other types of sinus surgery. Instead, an ENT physician advances a balloon catheter through your nose into your sinuses, inflates it, then rinses out the sinuses with a saline solution. This process reduces inflammation and frees up the passageways.
You’ll Have a Speedy Recovery
Again, because the procedure is minimally invasive and doesn’t require incisions, you will recover much faster than traditional sinus surgery. Most patients return to most daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, although it’s important to avoid strenuous activity for at least a week. You’ll also take antibiotics during this time to prevent another infection.
You Can Go Home Afterward
Balloon Sinuplasty is an outpatient procedure, so it is performed in an ENT office rather than a hospital. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes, and because only a local anesthetic is administered, many patients are able to drive themselves home afterward.
There’s a Lower Risk of Complications
According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, “Since its inception, Balloon Sinuplasty has a reputation as a safe, yet effective minimally invasive procedure. The first large-scale study by Bolger et al., deemed the CLEAR study, looked at adverse events within a 24-week follow-up period after Balloon Sinuplasty. Out of the 115 patients included in the study, there were no serious adverse effects.”
It’s Effective
Balloon Sinuplasty has been shown to be not only safe but also highly effective for sinusitis. One study published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology reports, “Balloon sinuplasty appears to be safe and effective for the treatment of [chronic rhinosinusitis] with great long-term outcomes.” For more information or to schedule an appointment with an expert ENT physician, call Albany ENT & Allergy Services today.
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