Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology – New Treatment for Sinusitis Patients

Sinusitis is one of the most common chronic health problems in the United States, afflicting 37 million Americans each year. Sinusitis significantly impacts an individual’s physical, functional, and emotional quality of life.  Until recently, sinusitis patients were limited to two treatment options: medical therapy such as antibiotics and topical nasal steroids or conventional sinus surgery including Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). Medical therapy can help alleviate symptoms for some patients however, for 20-25% of sufferers, this alone is not adequate. For these patients, sinus surgery is their next hope in finding relief. FESS is a conventional operation that requires bone and tissue removal in order to open up blocked sinus passageways. With no desirable treatment, over 600,000 Americans are left living with their sinus condition.

Now there is technology available in endoscopic sinus surgery using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices. Saints Medical Center otolaryngologists at Mass. ENT Associates are using this technology to offer new hope in relief to chronic sufferers. Endoscopic sinus surgery with this technology involves using a small, flexible balloon catheter that is placed through the nostril into the blocked sinus passageway. When the balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and opens the sinus passageway, restoring normal sinus drainage and function.

1) The balloon catheter is inserted into the nostril; 2) the balloon is inflated to gently restructure and open the passageway; 3) the balloon catheter is removed.

The Balloon Sinuplasty™ system offers benefits to sinusitis patients considering surgery. The Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices enable physicians to treat sinusitis entirely through the nostrils, and in many cases without tissue or bone removal.  This may result in reduced bleeding and post-procedure discomfort for patients.  The Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology has undergone rigorous clinical validation and studies have shown treatment using the devices to be safe and effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis.

While recovery time varies with each patient, many people can return to normal activities within 24 hours.  To find out if the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system is appropriate for your condition, contact our Saints otolaryngologists at Mass. ENT Associates: 978-256-5557.