Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon dilation or balloon sinuplasty, is a medical procedure that uses smaller inflatable balloons to help dilate or open the sinuses in the nose to relieve congestion and improve sinus drainage. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the balloons are left in place for a set period, which can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the individual patient's healing process.
During the balloon sinuplasty procedure, the patient is first administered general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. An endoscope with a camera is used to aid in the insertion of the balloons through the nostrils. The balloons are then inflated with a special salt_water solution to expand the sinuses and remove any blockages in the sinuses. Most patients report a significant improvement in their symptoms after balloon sinuplasty, with improvements in facial pressure, congestion, and sinus pain often observed.
