Balloon Sinuplasty: Procedure, Recovery, Video, What to Expect

When a person has continuous difficulty breathing through the nose, it can be problematic. Difficulty in breathing and other problems like pain around the cheeks, nose and forehead are typical symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis. When medication doesn't prove to be useful for Chronic Sinusitis, Balloon Sinus Ostial Dilation or Balloon Sinuplasty is the ideal solution to rectify the problem. This is a simple surgery where most patients can leave the hospital on the same day. It is a  minimally invasive procedure avoiding the risks of opening a part of the body. 

Benefits Of Undergoing Balloon Sinus Ostial Dilation

1. It is safer than traditional procedures (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery) as there is a lower risk of bleeding.
2. Patients need to spend only a much shorter time at the office of an ENT Specialist or clinic.
3. Fewer chances of damage to sinus tissues, cartilages, mucus membrane or nasal bones. 
4. No need for postoperative visits to remove sutures or stitches. But follow-up visits for endoscopy are to be undertaken.
5. The recovery time is much less than traditional surgeries. 
6. Reduced risk of infection in the nasal cavity caused by surgery, scarring or inflammation due to surgery. 

Who needs this procedure?

Those who suffer from Ethmoidal Sinusitis cannot get cured with this Balloon Sinuplasty alone. Patients suffering from Acute Sinusitis that can be cured with medication are also not advised to go for this procedure.

1. People who suffer from the below conditions are the ideal candidates for Balloon Sinus Ostial Dilation. They are those who:
2. Don't respond to any medication for Chronic Sinusitis.
3. Have bony obstructions showing in the CT scan.
4. Suffer from chronic nasal problems.
5. Have difficulty breathing through their noses

Procedure After Balloon Sinus Ostial Dilation

Recovery At The Hospital

1. Patients stay at the hospital till they recover from the effects of the anaesthesia.
2. Doctors check the patient for any signs of bleeding or injury due to the surgery.
3. Nurses check the pulse and blood pressure, and ensure there is no effect of anaesthesia before discharging the person. 
4. Health workers advise patients not to blow their nose at least for the next 24 hours as it can cause bleeding and damage to the sinuses. 
5. Doctors prescribe antibiotics as a precautionary measure to prevent infection that could occur after surgery .

Recovery At Home

1. Most patients return to normal work and activities within two days of surgery.
2. Keeping the head elevated using a pillow when sleeping helps in managing drainage from the nose. 
3. Patients use saline solution to rinse their sinuses and keep them clean. This is done by pouring saline solution through one nostril and bringing it out through the other nostril or mouth.
4. It is better to avoid strenuous activities like lifting heavy objects or severe exercises for one week after the surgery.
5. Those who have undergone the procedure must take all prescribed medicines as advised. 

Risks And Complications

1. The risks and complications in this surgery are minimal and rare.
2. In rare cases, the connection between the brain and the nose is affected, and the brain fluid leaks into the nose. This is taken care of immediately.
3. Some people may see a change in the shape of their noses after the surgery. 

Follow Up Visits To The Doctor

1. Patients must visit a doctor for checking and endoscopy one week after the operation.
2. The next visit with consultation and endoscopy happens after three months. 
3. Another follow-up visit is scheduled after one year when the endoscopy is repeated. 

1. The risks and complications in this surgery are minimal and rare.
2. In rare cases, the connection between the brain and the nose is affected, and the brain fluid leaks into the nose. This is taken care of immediately.
3. Some people may see a change in the shape of their noses after the surgery. 

1. Patients must visit a doctor for checking and endoscopy one week after the operation.
2. The next visit with consultation and endoscopy happens after three months. 
3. Another follow-up visit is scheduled after one year when the endoscopy is repeated. 

Conclusion

1. While it may not be the solution for all your nasal problems, balloon sinus ostial dilation has proved to be excellent for many people suffering from chronic sinusitis.
2. The procedure is simple, safe and quick without invasive surgery complications.
3. Many hospitals in India offer the treatment. Patients can go to their homes on the same day in most cases. They can return to normal activities within a day.