Balloon Sinuplasty

Having the facts about this procedure helps to ensure that patients have a better understanding of why the doctor recommended it and what happens during the procedure.

Preparation

Since anesthesia is used, there are some generation preparation instructions doctors might provide to their patients. It is often suggested that patients refrain from drinking or eating approximately 12 hours before the procedure. This helps to prevent food backing up into the lungs while under anesthesia.

Those taking supplements or medications may need to make alterations a short time before the procedure. Patients should make sure that their doctor has a full and accurate list of everything that they take. For example, those taking medications that can thin the blood may need to stop them for a specific period of time before the procedure.

About the Procedure

Balloon sinuplasty is considered to be an innovative surgery that can be recommended for sinusitis. For this procedure, the surgeon does not have to remove anything from the patient’s sinuses, so it might be a better choice for those needing a less invasive procedure to alleviate their symptoms.

Prior to the procedure, patients will be prepped, and this may involve getting an intravenous line inserted and doing a quick examination to ensure that the patient is in proper health to have the procedure. Patients should ensure that they followed all preparation instructions and let the doctor know that they did.

The next step may involve administering anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery. The exact type used depends on what the doctor and patient discussed during the pre-surgical appointment.

Once the anesthesia is complete, the procedure starts. This begins using an endoscope which is a thin tube. This tube is carefully inserted into the patient’s nose. On one end of it is a small balloon. Once the balloon is placed properly, the doctor will inflate the balloon. The purpose of the balloon is to help clear the sinus passageway that is blocked so that the patient is less congested and the sinuses are able to drain.

Recovery from Balloon Sinuplasty

The doctor will provide full instructions for recovery to the patient before the procedure. In general, following a procedure, patients should take it easy for as long as the doctor instructs. This may include taking time off from work or needing help to complete certain chores around the home. Patients should also ensure that they keep all follow-up appointments with their doctor.

Patients should make sure to follow all of their doctor’s orders before and after surgery. They should also ask all questions they might have before the procedure to make sure that they understand what to expect.