How Are Fess And Balloon Sinuplasty Different
The type of sinus procedure recommended for you will depend upon your unique needs. The two procedures differ in a few ways.
- Balloon Sinuplasty is typically performed right in the doctors office. FESS is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
- FESS involves making incisions that are very precise in order to remove or minimize problematic bone or tissue within the nasal passages. Balloon Sinuplasty involves no cutting at all.
- Balloon Sinuplasty is used when simply enlarging a blocked sinus passage is sufficient. FESS is used to help correct more significant physical problems such as removing nasal polyps or correcting a deviated septum.
Both procedures are similar in that they are less invasive treatment options. The procedures themselves take less time to perform than traditional sinus surgeries and the methods allow for recovery times that are quick and often painless. In many cases, normal activity can resume within a few days to a week, depending on what type of procedure you undergo.
How Long Does Symptom Relief Last After Balloon Sinuplasty
Numerous studies have shown that the benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty last for at least two years in the vast majority of patients, which is as good or better than whats achieved with conventional sinus surgeries. Exactly how long your sinuses stay open depends on the extent of your sinus disease and other factors regarding your personal health status. In general, though, we have every reason to expect that the improvement is permanent.
When To Decide Balloon Sinuplasty Vs Sinus Surgery
What If I am offered endoscopic sinus surgery? Most of us believe that endoscopic sinus surgery is much more important if there are coexisting nasal polyps, sinus masses, or more severe infection. It is also more useful if there is scarring of sinus openings from prior surgery. In patients with more severe disease on CT scan, more aggressive bacterial infections, or have lesions that need to have a good biopsy I am more likely to recommend endoscopic sinus surgery in the operating room. Surgery in the operating room allows us to do more cutting and removal of tissue when needed. Recovery is not severe, but is considerable for several days. However with severe disease, polyps, or masses is basically necessary I think. Usually before considering any sinus procedure we will have treated several weeks with antibiotics, attempted to get bacterial cultures, and have done nasal endoscopy. The sinus CT scan serves as our roadmap for surgery, both deciding if surgery is necessary and deciding the extent of surgery necessary.
What is even better, we actually have pretty good long-term data showing the effectiveness of these balloon procedures on long-term sinus recovery.
In short, the more severe nasal blockage is, the more severe the sinus infection is on CT scanning tends to favor endoscopic sinus surgery in the operating room. Less severe sinus disease tends to respond better to the office procedures such as balloon sinuplasty.
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What Should You Not Do After Balloon Sinuplasty
Here is what you should avoid after youve had your procedure:
- Do NOT drive yourself home. If you opted for IV sedation, you will not be awake enough to drive safely. Ask someone that you trust to drive you home after your procedure.
- Do NOT blow your nose for at least 24 hours. Though bloody drainage is normal for a few days after surgery, blowing your nose could cause excessive bleeding and damage to your sinuses.
- Do NOT take any pain medication unless you are instructed to. Avoid taking over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol and Aleve, as well as vitamin E, as they can increase your risk of bleeding due to their blood thinning nature. If you need to take any medication, talk with your doctor before your balloon sinuplasty procedure.
- Do NOT do any strenuous exercise. Its best to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week, but moderate exercise is fine for the first 48 hours. Try your best to rest the day after your procedure!
Cons Of Balloon Sinuplasty
The cons of balloon sinuplasty include the following:
- Because balloon sinuplasty is a relatively new procedure, it doesnt have the proven track record of endoscopic sinus surgery.
- Some advanced cases such as patients with enlarged adenoids may not be suitable for a balloon sinuplasty.
- Theres potential that the procedure can cause damage to the tissues because of the expansion.
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What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery is simply any surgical procedure for the sinuses performed through the nostrils and visualised with an endoscope. When sinus surgery is performed to treat a condition e.g. sinusitis , and we want to maximise the chance of the sinus returning to normal function, this is called Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery . FESS is thus the most common type of ESS.
Does Alcohol Consumption Or Smoking Affect Recovery
Alcohol is a potent vessel dilator and can promote edema or swelling and even bleeding. We advise patients to abstain from heavy drinking for one week prior to surgery and avoid any alcohol intake the week after surgery. We also discourage patients from smoking during the month before and after the procedure, as smoking can severely affect the outcome. Smoking causes increased scar tissue, poor healing and greater risk of complications.
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Balloon Sinuplasty Recovery Is Safer
Traditional sinus surgeries often require invasive cutting of the bone and tissue and are performed in operating rooms using general anesthesia. What some patients may not know is that this general anesthetic can often cause significant tissue damage and more bleeding to the patient, resulting in a much longer recovery time with more complications. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we offer the option of local IV sedation with an anesthesiologist for a more comfortable procedure. IV sedation is not necessary though and is offered to help individuals who are anxious about the procedure. Due to the minimally invasive nature of balloon sinuplasty, there is significantly less or no damage to the tissues, resulting in a safer, virtually painless recovery process.
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
FESS is an outpatient procedure that can last up to two hours and does require general anesthesia. This is because endoscopic sinus surgery requires the cutting and removal of bone and tissue in order to clear up your sinus passages. This removal will allow for better drainage, less blockage, and improved breathing.
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How Long Does It Take To Recover From Balloon Sinuplasty
Because the Balloon Sinuplasty system is minimally invasive and no bone or tissue is removed, most patients are able to return to their normal activities fairly quickly. While recovery time varies from person to person, many people can return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours following surgery. We do advise our patients to avoid strenuous activities or exercise that makes them feel strained during the two weeks after the procedure. However, moderate exercise is fine during the recovery period.
Balloon Sinus Surgery Preparation
Dr. Bennett individualizes every patients care. A minimum of half an hour is needed to fully understand your expectations and to get a complete history and evaluation of the inside and outside of your nose. Knowing what to expect will make the entire experience more pleasant and increase your satisfaction with the surgical results. Dr. Bennett will discuss the cosmetic and functional expectations of your balloon sinuplasty in detail to make sure all of your questions are answered. Depending on whether you have functional/breathing issues insurance may cover part of your surgery.
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What Should I Do About Recurring Sinusitis
Posted in Uncategorized | August 4, 2022
Do you suffer from four or more sinus infections a year? You may have recurring sinusitis.
If you have recurring sinusitis, youll experience several sinus infections throughout the year with symptomless periods between episodes. Dealing with the debilitating symptoms of recurring sinusitis can be challenging and affect your quality of life.
Keep reading to learn more about recurring sinusitis and what you can do to treat this condition.
What Are The Risks Or Complications Of This Procedure
While balloon sinuplasty has few complications, here are a few complications you might experience:
- Your nose might bleed more than you expected.
- You might develop bacterial sinusitis and need antibiotics to cure the infection.
Your symptoms might come back, requiring additional procedures such as another balloon sinuplasty or a different treatment, such as endoscopic sinus surgery.
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What Is Mr Hamann’s Experience With Balloon Sinuplasty
Mr Hamann was one of the first surgeons in the UK to perform balloon operations on the nose and sinuses, and has been regularly undertaking such procedures for approaching ten years. He has subspecialist training in nose and sinus problems, which form the majority of his practice. He currently performs more balloon procedures than any other surgeon in the UK.
Is There Any Benefit Of A Larger Opening
Yes, there are clear advantages:
- It is easier for the patient to flush the sinuses with nasal irrigation a.k.a nasal saline douche in the post-operative period. This means patients can experience a quicker recovery.
- If the patient gets sinusitis in the future, it will probably clear much more quickly with a larger opening.
- There is less need for in-clinic instrumentation of the sinuses, which is time-consuming and uncomfortable for the patient.
- Even if instrumentation is required, it will be much more comfortable for a patient with a wide frontal opening compared with having one that is barely wider than the instrument.
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Do I Need Surgery More Than Once
Research has found that sinus surgery can reduce sinusitis symptoms long-term. A recent study showed 15 out of 15 adults reported improved sinus symptoms 3-6 months after surgery and no side effects. The surgery can be beneficial for children as well. Other studies have found long-term positive effects of reducing sinus symptoms in children, with almost 80% not needing future sinus surgery.
Break The Frustrating Cycle Of Recurring Sinusitis
You live in a cycle of sinus infections when you have recurring sinusitis. That can make you miserable and affect your sleep patterns, work, and social life.
Fortunately, the top ENTs at Suburban Otolaryngology can treat the root cause of your recurring sinusitis, providing effective, long-term relief.
Are you tired of struggling with sinus infections that keep coming back? Request your appointment at Suburban Otolaryngology in Berwyn, IL, to find the relief you need! Theres no reason to keep living with sinus infections and recurring sinusitis.
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Want To Learn More About Balloon Sinuplasty Vs Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
If youre suffering from chronic sinusitis, lets talk. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we help the people of Houston breath better every day through procedures like balloon sinuplasty and endoscopic sinus surgery. We have the skill you need to experience the lasting benefits of traditional and new sinus surgeries.
To request an appointment, call us at 713-766-1818 or contact us online today.
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Thinking About Surgery For Chronic Sinusitis Here Are Five Reasons Endoscopic Sinus Surgery May Be A Better Option Than Balloon Sinuplasty
Chronic sinusitis affects millions of people every year. Some people with chronic sinus problems cant get relief with medications, no matter what they try. They may need to consider having sinus surgery to get some relief.
Sinus surgery can help enlarge the sinus openings. The goal is that the larger sinus openings will allow the sinuses to drain more easily. The larger openings can also make it easier for medications to get into the sinuses. All of this can then help the sinuses function better.
ENT doctors now perform two main types of procedures to treat chronic sinus problems. One is traditional endoscopic sinus surgery and the other is balloon sinuplasty.
Endoscopic sinus surgery is also called functional endoscopic sinus surgery . Surgeons have performed endoscopic sinus surgery over the course of 30+ years. With endoscopic sinus surgery, the surgeon uses a little endoscope through the inside of the nostrils to look for the little openings into the sinuses. The doctor then uses different surgical tools to enlarge the narrow sinus openings under direct visualization.
Balloon sinuplasty has been used for about 10 years. With balloon sinuplasty, the doctor inserts a balloon into the nostrils. They aim the balloon into the sinus opening. They then inflate the balloon to try to stretch the sinus opening. There has been a big increase in the number of patients having balloon sinuplasty over the last five years.
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Balloon Sinuplasty Vs Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Explained
When you experience recurring sinus problems, its likely that youll eventually find yourself researching sinus surgeries or more specifically, balloon sinuplasty vs. endoscopic sinus surgery.
Balloon sinuplasty and functional endoscopic sinus surgery are both effective chronic sinusitis treatments that can relieve a variety of uncomfortable sinus issues. These issues can expand to include everything from nasal congestion and sinus headaches to snoring and nose whistling.
Obviously, these issues can negatively impact your day-to-day life, and sinus surgery or balloon sinuplasty can help you start living and breather better again. However, these two treatment options do vary. Its important to understand what the differences are and to speak with your doctor regarding FESS and balloon sinuplasty in Houston.
Lets cover the benefits and differences of balloon sinuplasty vs endoscopic sinus surgery.
What Happens During This Procedure
Balloon sinuplasty can be done in a medical office or a hospital operating room.
If youre being treated in an operating room, your balloon sinuplasty might include the following:
- Youll be given general anesthesia or conscious sedation. Conscious sedation blocks pain but allows you to stay awake during the procedure.
- Your healthcare provider will put a topical decongestant in your nose to control any bleeding you might have during the procedure.
- Theyll inject a local anesthetic into some of the tissue that lines your nose.
- Theyll use a thin tube with a light on the end called an endoscope to insert a catheter into your nostril.
- Next theyll use the catheter to guide a small balloon into your sinuses.
- Then theyll slowly inflate the balloon to gently unblock your sinuses.
- Your provider may deflate the balloon and remove it or they may repeat the process before deflating the balloon and removing it.
If youre being treated in a medical office, your balloon sinuplasty might include the following steps:
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Minimally Invasive Surgery Benefits
Both endoscopic sinus surgery and the balloon sinuplasty are minimally invasive procedures. This means that the surgeon typically does not need to make any external incisions to perform the procedure. Both these procedures are often performed as outpatient surgeries, meaning the patient can return home that same day. Both focus on treating the underlying cause of chronic sinus problems, instead of decreasing symptoms.
Getting Balloon Sinuplasty Surgery In Midtown
Endoscopic sinus surgery is one of the latest developments for a sinuplasty procedure. Its a very small telescope that allows doctors to visualize your nose and sinuses much easier. It has revolutionized the procedure because while it is a science, not being able to see makes it a bit more difficult for doctors. Endoscopic sinuplasty surgery makes the procedure go a bit faster and your recovery time will be less as well. Overall, the procedure will drain your nasal passages in a precise, effective way and youll be feeling better in no time.
Often, a balloon sinuplasty surgery is done in tandem with other medical treatments. Having your nasal passages open allows certain medications, like sprays and rinses, to get to the linings of your sinuses better. An endoscopic sinus surgery will accomplish that and youll be amazed at just how quickly your sinuses start feeling like normal. There is little that needs to be done before the procedure, but make sure you are prepared. Ask any questions you need to ask and make sure you know what to expect. An endoscopic sinuplasty surgery is a simple procedure, but it is a procedure nonetheless. It will make you feel better to be prepared.
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Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: What To Expect
When you see Dr. Kayem about sinusitis or sinus infections, youll first be given a thorough evaluation that includes a physical exam, a nasal endoscopy, and a review of your medical history. He typically recommends the least invasive course first , but if those treatments have failed to correct the issue, hell ask you to get any necessary preoperative tests, which usually include a CT scan, before scheduling surgery.
Pre-sinus surgery, the doctor will give you instructions regarding medications, smoking, and fasting. Your surgery will be performed under anesthesia and is usually not uncomfortable. Traditional absorbent nasal packing is no longer used. Instead, Dr. Kayem will use resorbable material, or none at all.
You will need to avoid blowing your nose for a few weeks and return for post-operative visits to ensure healing is on track. During these visits, Dr. Kayem will clean the surgical cavity, remove any unnecessary scar tissue, and consider whether medical therapy should be continued.
Postoperative recovery can be uncomfortable and may take a few weeks, but most patients are happy they had surgery. FESS has an 80-90% success rate, and can provide relief from pain, easier breathing through the nose, and even an improved sense of smell.