Balloon Sinus Dilation

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection, is a common condition in which the sinus cavities in the upper skull become inflamed and cannot properly drain. As a result, fluid and mucus accumulate and the nasal passages become obstructed. Additionally, the clogged material cause viruses, bacteria, and fungi to grow and cause an infection. Sinusitis is a debilitating disease affecting more than 37 million Americans annually.

Hear how sinusitis negatively impacted this patient’s quality of life.

Sinusitis Symptoms

Patients can suffer from acute or chronic pain in the upper skull from the blockage and this pain can hinder their daily lives. Patients can also suffer from these additional symptoms:

  • Ear Pain
  • Facial pain and pressure
  • Fever
  • Headaches
  • Mouth breathing
  • Pain in the upper teeth
  • Visual disturbance
  • Discolored mucus discharge
  • Congestion and nasal obstruction

Treatment Of Sinusitis

Sinusitis is one of the most common conditions in the country. Traditionally, those who suffer from the pain, pressure and other symptoms of recurring and persistent sinus infections have two routes to relief. This includes medical therapy, antibiotics and steroids, or functional endoscopic sinus surgery. However, patients now have another treatment option, balloon sinus dilation.

What Is Balloon Sinus Dilation?

Balloon sinus dilation is a minimally invasive treatment option that expands the sinus pathways in order to restore proper drainage. The balloon sinus dilation procedure is an in-office procedure that does not require general anesthesia and, in most cases, allows patients to resume normal activities within 24 hours.

Balloon sinus dilation technology is used to treat chronic, recurrent, or persistent sinusitis affecting the sinuses above your eyebrows, as well as, under and behind your eyes. Here at Synergy ENT Specialists, Dr. Gould can determine if your condition is one that may benefit from this treatment. Additionally, he can help you understand the risks and benefits of this procedure.

Video animation of Entellus XprESS balloon sinus dilation treatment.

Balloon Sinuplasty Benefits

After medication, patients have limited options for relief. Therefore, balloon sinus dilation may be an effective, lasting option. The benefits of choosing balloon sinus dilation over traditional sinus surgery include:

  • An absence of surgical incisions
  • Lack of serious complications
  • No damage to surrounding tissue
  • No removal of bone or tissue
  • Reduced bleeding
  • Shorter recovery time

The Balloon Sinus Dilation Procedure

Dr. Gould performs the balloon sinuplasty procedure in office while the patient is under local anesthetic. During this quick procedure, Dr. Gould will insert an XprESS™ dilation tool* through the nostril. This is a guide catheter attached to a wire and small balloon. Once near the sinus opening, the balloon is inflated and expands the sinus opening.

Then, an irrigation catheter is inserted to cleanse the sinus with saline solution. After the opening is clear, Dr. Gould will deflate the balloon and remove it. The sinus remains open after the balloon is removed and patients can return home the same day of the procedure. XprESS™ balloon sinuplasty restores natural drainage and offers instant life-changing relief that lasts.

Balloon Sinuplasty Recovery

Many patients return to their normal activities within 24 hours of the procedure. However, patients can experience bloody discharge, pain and sinus pressure. Additionally, patients should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications so they do not cause excess bleeding. If patients experience some nasal congestion it typically resolves within 2-3 weeks after the procedure.

Hear how patients’ lives have changed after balloon sinuplasty.

Balloon Sinus Dilation With Dr. Gould

Great Day St. Louis interviews Dr. Gould and his patient, Bud. Just one month after his procedure, Bud speaks highly of Balloon Sinuplasty. He states “My quality of life has improved significantly. Now, when I play on the floor with my grandchildren, I don’t get dizzy – a surprise plus I wasn’t expecting!” Bud recommends balloon sinus dilation to anyone who is suffering from sinusitis.

Schedule A Consultation With Dr. Gould

Dr. James Gould is sinusitis expert and experienced user of balloon sinus dilation technologies. He is the founder and medical director of the St. Louis Sinus CenterMake an appointment with Dr. Gould today by calling 1-314-4RELIEF (473-5433) to determine if balloon sinus dilation is right for you!

To learn more about sinusitis treatment options and balloon sinus dilation, visit www.sinussurgeryoptions.com and www.stlsinuscenter.com.

*Caution: Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Call Now For Your Evaluation

James D. Gould, MD, F.A.C.S.
1-314-4RELIEF (473-5433)
636.931.7380

www.www.synergyentspecialists.net

The St. Louis Sinus Center
1588 S. Lindbergh Blvd, Suite 210
St. Louis, MO 63131
stlsinuscenter.com

[i] Stankiewicz, James MD, Truitt, Theodore MD, and Atkins, James MD. “One Year Results: Transantral balloon dilation of the ethmoid infundibulum” ENT Journal February 2010 Volume 89, Number 2

[ii] Stankiewicz, James, et al. “Transantral, endoscopically guided balloon dilation of the ostiomeatal complex for chronic rhinosinusitis under local anesthesia” AM J Rhinol Allergy: 23 1-00 (2009).

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