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New generation of sinus surgery relies on balloon catheter

SallSinusitis patients have a safer, quicker method of obtaining relief, through a procedure that uses a balloon catheter.

Patients suffering from chronic, persistent sinusitis due to anatomical problems may be candidates for sinus surgery if they do not respond to medical treatment. Edward Sall, MD, who performs sinus surgery at Upstate University Hospital at Community General, uses the balloon sinuplasty method.

“The balloon sinuplasty technique is a fantastic adjunct to sinus surgery," says Sall. "It has proven improvement in every aspect of sinus surgery, and offers patients more benefits than the traditional surgery.”

Sall was one of the first physicians in Central New York to offer balloon sinpulasty after earning certification for the procedure more than two years ago. He now performs more than 100 cases per year.

The sinuplasty technique uses a small, flexible balloon catheter that enters the sinus cavity through the nostril. The balloon is inflated to gently restructure the cavity and produce wider openings while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining and improving sinus drainage and function. This technique is radically different than traditional surgery, which removes bone and tissue to enlarge the sinus opening.

"Compared to the traditional method of surgery, the balloon technique offers the patient more comfort, quicker return to work and daily activities, and tissue preservation, "said Dr. Sall. "The technology also allows patients to return home the same day as their procedure."

This is the next generation of sinuplasty, first introduced in 2005 as a way to treat the more than 30 million adults who suffer from chronic sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus lining that lasts three or more months. Sinusitis can be miserable, accompanied by headaches, teeth pain, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sore throat, fever and fatigue.
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