This is a minimally invasive procedure which is done in the office to help open blocked sinuses passages so they can drain properly and prevent future infections and symptoms of sinusitis. The instrument used has a small inflatable balloon that is used to dilate open the sinuses. The procedure is done with local anesthesia (much like a Dental procedure). Multiple clinical trials {link to papers} have shown Balloon Sinuplasty to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with chronic sinusitis.
Indications: Balloon Sinuplasty is indicated for patients that have tried medical management (antibiotics, nasal sprays, allergy treatment, saline rinses) but are still having sinusitis symptoms or infections. A CT Scan is always done to determine if the patient’s sinus anatomy will indeed benefit from the dilation procedure. Patients with mild to moderate sinus disease will do best with this treatment.
Preparation: Patients are given full instructions to follow for 1 week prior to their procedure. In addition, patients also continue any medical management that has been used for their sinus problems previously. Certain medications like aspirin and other blood thinners will need to be stopped in advance of the procedure. Patients may have a light breakfast the day of the procedure.
What to expect during the procedure: Balloon Sinuplasty is performed in the office and with local anesthesia. A nasal endoscope is used to help visualize the sinuses so that the balloon can be placed properly to dilate open the blocked sinus passages. Before the procedure is started, the nose is sprayed with a numbing spray to provide comfort during the procedure. While the numbing spray has a medicinal taste and does drip into the throat a little bit, it works very effectively and quickly. Patients may feel some pressure as the balloon is dilated and hear a slight crackling sound as the sinus is dilated open. We take our time with the numbing process to make sure the procedure is comfortable for you. Oral Valium can also be used to help patients relax.
Recovery and Follow Up: Given that Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, the recovery process is limited and short. Most patients will have a spotty nosebleed and nasal congestion for 2 days after the procedure. Tylenol can be taken as needed but majority of patients have no pain – only nasal congestion. Normal activity with some minor restrictions can be resumed after 3 days in most cases. Follow up is usually done within 2 weeks after the procedure and sooner as needed. Dr Jafri personally calls you after the procedure and patients are given direct access to his number for any questions and concerns during the recovery process.
Costs: Balloon Sinuplasty is covered by insurance. Our office will check your insurance coverage and advise of any potential costs based on your specific plan prior to scheduling any procedure. We can also provide you with the relevant CPT codes so you can speak with your insurance provider as well.
Risks: All procedures have inherent risks, benefits, alternatives and complications associated with them and to the specific individual patient being treated. Dr Jafri will review these with you in detail and answer any questions you have before you proceed with any procedure and as part of the process of whether to proceed or not.
Balloon Sinusplasty Case Study