• Balloon sinuplasty was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2005.
• The procedure can help treat chronic sinusitis with long-lasting effects.
• Balloon dilation is minimally invasive, and there's no cutting or removal of bones or tissue.
Dr. John Stewart of Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers discussed the benefits of a balloon sinuplasty procedure in an interview with Patient Daily.
"A balloon sinuplasty is offered in office, which means no hospitals, and those extra hidden fees are avoided," Stewart said. "This procedure is minimally invasive, safe, painless, fast and effective. It typically takes around 30 minutes, and then you are on your way back home."
According to Healthline, balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon catheter dilation surgery, is a relatively new procedure designed to clear blocked sinuses. Also referred to as the "smart sinus" procedure, it was approved by the FDA in 2005. Balloon sinuplasty is recommended for those who continue to suffer from chronic sinusitis, after other treatments have proven ineffective. There's no cutting or removal of bones or tissue, and reported complications are minimal.
Chronic sinusitis occurs when the sinuses, or the spaces inside of a person's nose and head, are swollen and inflamed for three months or longer despite treatment, according to Mayo Clinic.
Common physical symptoms of chronic sinusitis include the following: nasal inflammation, a runny nose, postnasal drainage, congestion, pain or swelling in the face, headaches, loss of smell and taste, a sore threat, bad breath or fatigue.
A balloon sinuplasty is an in-office procedure that's simple and only takes about an hour, according to Entellus Medical. The preparation takes about thirty minutes and involves anesthetics being applied to the nose for more comfort. A thin instrument with a balloon is then guided through your sinus, the balloon is gently inflated for five seconds with saline, and when your sinuses open, the balloon is removed.
To learn more about the symptoms of chronic sinusitis and allergies, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.
