A New Surgical Treatment Option for Chronic Sinus Infections

baLLoon sinuPLasty may HeLP tHose WHo suffer from PainfuL sinus Pressure

For people with seasonal allergies, the pleasure of outdoor activities can be overshadowed by the misery of acute sinusitis, a condition with symptoms that typically include nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, and sometimes a cough. Often, treatments such as medication and sinus rinses will help relieve pain and pressure.

S ome individuals, however, suffer from chronic sinusitis, which means their symptoms recur more frequently, can be longer lasting, and may be difficult to control. A primary care doctor is likely to refer someone with chronic sinusitis to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist such as David Tsen, MD at Essentia Health.

“ We assess each patient’s individual situation, which may include a sinus CT scan to help view the sinuses, and recommend a treatment plan,” Dr. Tsen explained. “When all else has failed in terms of a longterm course of antibiotics, or treatment for allergies that tend to coincide with sinus infections, we may need to consider a surgical procedure.”

Traditionally, the primary surgical option for clearing blocked sinuses is functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), which involves removal of bone and tissue from the nose to enlarge the sinus opening. This removal of bone and tissue can require uncomfortable nasal packing after surgery and lead to post-surgery pain and scarring.

H owever, a new minimally invasive procedure, called Balloon SinuplastyTM, may be a treatment option for someone who suffers from chronic sinusitis. It’s an alternative to traditional sinus surgery wherein a narrow “balloon” catheter is placed through the nose to reach the inflamed sinus. It is slowly inflated to reopen the blocked nasal passage and then removed to improve drainage and reduce pressure and swelling.

“ I feel that Balloon Sinuplasty is one of the best tools available for opening up into the frontal sinus, which is traditionally a difficult area to access,” Dr. Tsen said. “Long-term results show its efficacy is as good as the traditional techniques.”

I f you experience frequent, painful sinus infections, speak with your physician about your treatment options, which may include Balloon Sinuplasty. For more information, contact the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at Essentia Health South University Clinic in Fargo at 701-3648900.