A Guide to Balloon Sinus Surgery

Balloon sinus surgery, also known as balloon sinuplasty, is a new technique that has revolutionized treatment for sinus issues in recent years. It was first introduced in the United States around 15 years ago, and since then it has taken off all over the world, becoming an exceptionally popular treatment for sinus conditions. It involves using sophisticated technology with a balloon-dilatational system dilates the sinus ostia through an approach that is minimally invasive and is proven to have great results.

How does the procedure work?

This sort of procedure will be performed in a hospital setting or in the office of your ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. The procedure will be performed under general or local anesthesia. You will speak to your ENT doctor before the procedure is carried out. A tiny flashlight will be inserted at the end of a wire into your sinus cavity, enabling the ENT doctor to be able to see what he or she is doing. Next, a flexible and very slim balloon catheter will be inserted into the sinus passage. The balloon will then be inflated slowly so that the sinus opening is expanded. Your ENT doctor will then use a saline solution to flush out the buildup of mucus and pus. You will feel the pressure decrease while this is happening. While the balloon is in your sinus passage, the bones around your sinuses will gently restructure. Once the procedure is finished, the balloon will be removed. This will leave the passage of your sinus widened, and it will free your sinus of any built-up pressure.

Aftercare and recovery

Now that you have a good idea regarding how this type of surgery is carried out and what to expect let’s take a look at the aftercare and recovery procedure. You will find that most people are able to resume their working life and usual daily activities within a day or two. There are some people that even drive themselves home after they have had the treatment. Once a week or so has passed after the surgery, do not be surprised if you see any discharge or bloody drainage coming from your nose. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern. The best thing you could possibly do once you have had this treatment is to follow the advice that your ENT doctor has provided you with. You will usually find that your ENT specialist will also provide you with some form of saline solution so that your nasal passage can be rinsed for three to seven days following the procedure. This promotes healing and keeps your sinuses lubricated.