What Is a Balloon Sinuplasty?

By Arthur H. Katz, MD
March 08, 2019
Category: ENT
Tags: balloon sinuplasty  

Sinus surgery isn't always the only way to treat chronic sinus pain, inflammation and infections. Balloon sinuplasty provides a minimally ENTinvasive alternative to traditional surgery. Balloon sinuplasty is among the treatments offered by your Olympia Fields, Crown Point, and Munster, IN, ENT, Dr. Arthur Katz.

How does balloon sinuplasty work?

Chronic headaches, nasal congestion and stubborn sinus infections can make your life miserable. It's difficult to concentrate at work or school when your pain is never-ending and fatigue may make it hard to participate in your favorite activities. Although decongestants and other medications may help, they may not offer enough relief if you have chronic sinus issues.

Sinus surgery, which involves cutting the tissue and bone that block your sinuses, is one option if you have chronic sinusitis. Although the surgery is effective, recovery can be painful. Balloon surgery eliminates cutting, which speeds the recovery process and reduces post-procedure pain.

During the treatment, your Crown Point, Olympia Fields, or Munster, IN, ENT inserts a small catheter containing a tiny balloon into your nostril and passes it into your sinuses. Once the balloon is in place, he inflates it. Inflating the balloon widens your sinus walls, eliminating congestion and making it easier to breathe. Mucus or pus that has collected in your sinuses is flushed away with saline solution during the treatment.

Side effects of anesthesia make some people feel nauseated after surgery. You'll only need a local anesthetic when you choose balloon sinuplasty and won't have to worry about unpleasant side effects.

What are the advantages of balloon sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty offers a few important benefits when compared to traditional sinus surgery. Although recovery from traditional surgery generally takes about a month, most people can resume their normal activities two days after balloon sinuplasty.

No cutting means much less pain while you recover. You may have a sinus headache for a few days, but pain usually responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers.

Would you like to find out if balloon sinuplasty can relieve your painful sinus issues? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Arthur Katz by calling (219) 934-9396 for the Munster, IN, office, (219) 769-8441 for the Crown Point office, or (708) 747-6900 for the Olympia Fields office.