How does Balloon Sinuplasty Work?

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 29 million adults (slightly over 12%) have been diagnosed with balloon sinuplastysinusitis (sinus infection). A mild occasional sinus infection can often be treated with over the counter medication or self-care, but if you are suffering from severe nasal inflammation or chronic sinus infections, the physicians at the Ear, Nose and Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center in Stafford and Fredericksburg, VA, may recommend a balloon sinuplasty procedure.

Balloon Sinuplasty in Stafford and Fredericksburg

Sinusitis causes inflammation in the sinus cavity. Although sinusitis often has many of the same symptoms of a common cold, many cases are caused by a bacterial infection and require treatment with antibiotics. A sinus infection can also be caused by a fungal (viral) infection related to seasonal or environmental allergies.

According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, sinus infections affect approximately one in eight adults and are responsible for millions of doctor visits and dollars spent on prescription medication every year.

What is a Balloon Sinuplasty?

Inflammation causes the sinus cavity to narrow, which blocks the mucus in the sinus cavity from draining. A balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that is used to gently open up the nasal passage so that the mucus buildup can be drained with a saline solution. Once your nasal passageway has been cleared, the balloon catheter is removed, leaving nasal passage open. A local anesthetic is applied before the procedure to minimize pressure and discomfort as your sinuses are dilated and cleared of buildup. Balloon sinuplasty is a non-surgical procedure, so the side effects and recovery time are typically much milder than a surgical procedure.

Find an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor in Stafford and Fredericksburg

To learn more about balloon sinuplasty and other treatment options for sinusitis, contact the Ear, Nose and Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center by calling (540) 371-1226 to schedule an appointment today.

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