More than 37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis, which makes it difficult to breathe through one’s nose and causes discolored nasal drainage, pressure, cough, fatigue, fever and loss of sense of smell.
In the past, patients generally had only two options for relief: either a course of antibiotics and steroids, or if that did not work, sinus surgery. Conventional sinus surgery involved removing bone or tissue from the nose. Patients often missed weeks from work after surgery, and full recovery took about four to six weeks. The good news is there is now a newer procedure that is safe and effective: balloon sinuplasty.
Unlike conventional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty does not remove bone or tissue.With minimally invasive surgery, patients have far less pain, a much shorter recovery and better long-term results. This newer procedure is best for people who have had four or more episodes of acute sinusitis within a year, or who have suffered from chronic sinusitis for more than three months.
For many people, balloon sinuplasty permanently opens up the sinus passages and relieves nagging pain and pressure, with long-term results. A small, flexible balloon is put through the nostril into the blocked sinus. When the balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and opens the sinus passageway, restoring normal sinus drainage and function.
In our practice, we perform balloon sinuplasty as a same day procedure at a hospital or surgery center, and in many cases in our office.
Minimally invasive Safe and effective Minimal bleeding Fast recovery time
Central Oregon Ear, Nose & Throat
2450 NE Mary Rose Pl., Ste 120, Bend
541-382-3100
www.coent.com
