Balloon Sinuplasty

(aka Balloon Sinus Dilation)

Our physicians have been performing Balloon Sinuplasty since 2007, and have made this available under local anesthesia in the office environment since 2010 (Dr. Rogers performed one of the first cases under local anesthesia in Atlanta).  We see balloon sinuplasty as a valuable tool in our treatment options for chronic sinusitis.

This is a minimally invasive low-risk method of widening sinus drainage pathways without needing general anesthesia or the risks of bigger more traumatic surgery.  It has the huge advantage over FESS (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery) in that the recovery period is much quicker and there is exceedingly tiny risk by comparison.  While the balloon procedure is great choice for many cases of sinusitis, it is not right for everyone.  Your sinus history, CT scan, and personal preferences all are part of the decision-making.  Balloon sinuplasty is used to address sinus infections involving any of the sinuses, usually after a several-week trial of antibiotics.

The procedure is done in the office equipped with videoendoscopic equipment.  Local anesthetic is applied inside the nose and typically allowed to set-in for 30-45 minutes before beginning.  The procedure itself is usually fairly quick thereafter, taking only 10 minutes or so.

The pain level ranges from trace-to-moderate immediately during portions of the procedure.   Afterwards pain is typically very mild, perhaps requiring a Tylenol or Motrin for the next 12 hours.  Bleeding and mucous drainage is very minimal.  There is no packing used during this procedure.

This procedure has been researched vigorously and has good success, comparable to that of traditional surgery, out to the seven-year point (this technique in fact has probably been studied more scientifically than sinus surgery itself!).

Like anyone suffering from chronic sinusitis there is a chance of relapse and a chance that a more aggressive surgery is needed.  We usually recommend evaluation and thorough treatment of any nasal allergies that may be present to reduce your risk of sinusitis relapse and manage chronic non-infectious symptoms.

Please Contact Us  at (404) 943-0900 to make an appointment to visit one of our physicians performing this procedure.