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Frequently Asked Questions about Balloon Sinuplasty
Preparing for Nasal Obstruction Surgery
April 18, 2018Frequently Asked Questions about Balloon Sinuplasty
Many people have never heard of balloon sinuplasty. However, millions of people suffer from the very condition that this procedure can treat.
Sinusitis or chronic sinusitis is a common condition that involves chronic inflammation and infection of the sinuses. This can lead to a wide variety of symptoms like headaches, face pain, sneezing, and pressure in the face and nose. Those with chronic sinusitis find themselves depending on over-the-counter medications, steroids, and antibiotics to treat the condition. However, this is only a temporary fix, and in most cases, sinusitis will come back again and again.
The Old Method
It used to be that the only option that patients had in order to be permanently rid of their sinus condition would be invasive surgery. The surgeon would need to directly access the sinus area and would have to remove both tissue and bone. The result is possible scarring, pain, blood loss and chance of infection. It is a procedure that requires a longer recovery time and is not always successful.
A new, less invasive option called balloon sinuplasty, uses a small catheter to place a balloon in the sinus cavity to then expand the area for a permanent fix.
Because so many people have never heard of balloon sinuplasty, they may have numerous questions about the procedure. Below are the three most common questions about this procedure and what it will mean for the patient.
How Do Doctors Perform Balloon Sinuplasty?
This method uses a balloon. A catheter is threaded through the nose to the sinus cavities. Then a very small balloon is slowly inflated to expand and unblock the sinus cavity. The procedure takes about an hour to finish and does not involve any incisions, blood loss, or damage to the skin and tissue.
Balloon Sinuplasty Recovery?
Generally, the reason for chronic sinusitis is the bone and tissue surrounding the sinus cavity. If this tissue is encroaching, the cavity could be blocked, making it extremely difficult to stay clear.
During this procedure, the balloon is slowly inflated. The result is a gradual, and non-damaging, moving and repositioning of that tissue and bone. Recovery is quick and patients can return to their daily routing within a day or two, and return to physical activity within a couple of weeks.
The procedure allows the surrounding tissue to be permanently moved. Unlike medications that just treat the symptoms, balloon sinuplasty permanently solves the problem that caused the condition.
Balloon Sinuplasty Side Effects Risks
“Because Balloon Sinuplasty is less invasive than traditional sinus surgery there is a low complication rate. But there are some associated risks, including tissue and mucosal trauma, infection, or possible optic injury. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits and to determine whether Balloon Sinuplasty is right for you.” –BSP
How Much Does Balloon Sinuplasty Cost?
The procedure is now widely known and most insurance companies offer coverage for the procedure. It is best to call us ahead of time to find out if you’re covered by your insurance- or to get a quote.
Is Balloon Sinuplasty covered by Medicare?
Yes. Medicare’s sinus surgery insurance coverage includes Balloon Sinuplasty.
Can any Physician Perform the Procedure?
No. Only surgeons who specialize in the ear, nose and throat (ENT) are able to and they must undergo training. This treatment is not available from standard physicians and not all ENTs are trained. It does requires extensive training and certification first. Broward Sinus Doctors are trained/certified, and have been pioneers of the procedure in South Florida.
To find out if you’re a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty call Odalys Alfonso at (954) 389-1414 or fill the short form below.
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