Name of the Procedure:

Nasal/Sinus Endoscopy, Surgical, with Dilation (e.g., Balloon Dilation); Frontal Sinus Ostium
Common Names: Balloon Sinuplasty, Balloon Sinus Dilation

Summary

A nasal/sinus endoscopy with balloon dilation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinusitis. A small, flexible balloon catheter is inserted into the sinus passage and then inflated to widen the sinus opening, which helps improve drainage and relieve sinus pressure.

Purpose

Medical Conditions: Chronic sinusitis, sinus infections, nasal congestion. Goals: Relieve sinus pressure, improve sinus drainage, reduce symptoms such as headaches and facial pain, and decrease the frequency of sinus infections.

Indications

Symptoms: Persistent nasal congestion, recurrent sinus infections, facial pain or pressure, reduced sense of smell. Patient Criteria: Patients with chronic sinusitis not responding to medication, those experiencing frequent sinus infections, or those with anatomical blockages in the sinuses.

Preparation

• Instructions: Fasting may be required a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication Adjustments: Some medications may need to be paused.
• Diagnostic Tests: A CT scan of the sinuses is often done to assess the anatomy and severity of the condition.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under local or general anesthesia.
2. An endoscope is inserted into the nasal cavity for visualization.
3. A flexible balloon catheter is guided to the frontal sinus ostium.
4. The balloon is inflated to dilate the sinus opening.
5. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the sinus passage widened.
6. Saline may be used to flush out mucus and other debris.

Tools: Endoscope, balloon catheter, saline flush Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia, depending on the case.

Duration

Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure can be performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• A board-certified ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon performs the procedure.
• Nurses and an anesthesiologist assist during the procedure.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Bleeding, infection, nasal congestion, slight discomfort.
• Rare Risks: Damage to the sinuses or surrounding tissues, persistent symptoms, anesthesia complications.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Significant relief from sinus symptoms such as congestion, pain, and pressure.
• Symptom relief can be noticed almost immediately, with continued improvement over a few weeks.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Use of saline nasal sprays to keep sinuses moist, avoiding strenuous activities.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 days.
• Follow-up: Scheduled visits to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Alternatives

• Medications: Antibiotics, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants.
• Other Procedures: Traditional sinus surgery, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
• Comparison: Balloon dilation is less invasive with quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery but may not be suitable for all patients.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Local or general anesthesia ensures comfort.
• After Procedure: Minimal discomfort, akin to a mild sinus infection. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers.