Millions of people suffer from nasal problems and sinusitis each year, lowering their quality of life and raising their healthcare costs. The inflammation of the sinus membranes causes breathing to become impaired and drainage of the sinus to be blocked, and the congestion can be quite painful. It often means more visits to your primary care doctor and several more trips to the pharmacy than you would make otherwise.
For you, the answer by a sinus specialist might be a balloon sinuplasty procedure.
Balloon Sinuplasty: What Is It?
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally-invasive, endoscopic, catheter-based system which utilizes a flexible sinus balloon catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways. As the balloon is inflated, the inflamed passageway is gently expanded and restructured without damaging the sinus lining. The result is restored drainage and improved function.
In many cases when balloon sinuplasty procedure is performed, there is no need for Dr. Dr. Aaron Fletcher (a sinus specialist) to cut or remove nasal bone and tissue. Because of this, there may be reduced bleeding and it may be unnecessary to pack the nose, which can be uncomfortable. Additional advantages of the procedure include a short recovery time, with many patients resuming normal activity within 24 hours, and the ability to use other sinus surgery techniques or medical therapies in addition to or following balloon sinuplasty. Treatment options are not limited by the endoscopic surgery.
What are the Procedure’s Advantages Over Traditional Surgery
In contrast to traditional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty can be performed by experienced Stockbridge, GA ENT doctors, such as Dr. Dr. Aaron Fletcher, as an awake procedure under local anesthesia. Dr. Dr. Aaron Fletcher’s patients experience a serene and calming environment with low ambient light and music through headphones.
In addition to the advantages of avoiding the hospital setting from a comfort standpoint, the costs are also significantly reduced with the absence of anesthesia and the surgery center fees. Plus, balloon sinuplasty is less traumatic and has a less cumbersome recovery.
Balloon Sinuplasty: Are You A Good Candidate?
Candidates for the balloon sinuplasty procedure have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis and are frustrated with the reoccurring, uncomfortable, and emotionally draining symptoms of the condition, which may not respond well to medication. The FDA-approved technology is safe and considered extremely effective. Hundreds of thousands of patients have been helped to breathe better and lead a fuller life through balloon sinuplasty.
For an immediate consultation contact Georgia Center for Ear, Nose & Throat at (678) 902-9495.