Balloon sinuplasty provides effective results for sufferers of sinus problems
(Rowlett) July 29, 2013 – Lake Pointe Medical Center in Rowlett now offers a new option in sinus surgery – the Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure (BSP). LPMC is proud to announce this recent availability for sufferers of sinus issues. This surgery approaches sinus related problems in a new way, utilizing the most recent technology that is clinically proven and minimally invasive yielding some of the most effective results. Dr. Wha-Joon Lee, on the medical staff at LPMC, is one of the first physicians in the area to offer this technology. The BSP uses a small catheter and balloon to quickly open and expand blocked sinuses.
Sinusitis is one of the most common chronic health problems in the United States, afflicting 37 million Americans each year. Patients suffer headaches, congestion, fatigue and other symptoms. This condition can significantly impact an individual’s physical, functional and emotional quality of life.
The mother of a four-year-old, who underwent the procedure around two years ago at LPMC explains, “She was constantly sick with a runny nose, congestion and coughing. We tried to treat her using antibiotics, nose sprays and any other over-the-counter remedy you can think of, all to no avail. Then we found Dr. Lee who explained the BSP procedure to us. She underwent the procedure soon after our conversation and you cannot believe the difference it has made for my daughter. She was back to her busy self the next day and she has only been sick once in the past two years, which is pretty amazing for a four-year-old.”
Sinusitis is typically treated first with medication, but at least 20 percent of patients do not respond adequately to medications. Sinus surgery is often the next step toward finding relief. However, conventional sinus surgery such as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) that requires bone and tissue removal in order to open up blocked sinus passageways may lead to post-operative pain and bleeding that requires uncomfortable nasal packing to control.
The new BSP procedure enables ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians to use minimally-invasive sinus balloon catheters to position a balloon into the blocked sinus passageway as an alternative. The balloon is then inflated to restructure and open the sinus passageway, facilitating normal sinus drainage and function.
“The BSP is a true advance in sinus care because in many cases it can be done without removing any tissue or bone,” said Dr. Lee.
The international, multi-center study, CLEAR, published in the prestigious journal, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, confirmed at all time points – 24 weeks, one year and two years – that the BSP instruments are safe and effective for opening blocked sinuses. It also has been performed with quick recovery in children as young as two years of age.
The CLEAR study reported:
- 91.6 percent functional patency rate at one year; 70 patients (217 sinuses)
- No serious adverse events at two years; 65 patients (195 sinuses)
- Symptom improvement for 85 percent of patients across the two-year post-surgery period
Sinusitis patients who are considering their options can learn more about the BSP by visiting lakepointemedical.com and searching for Balloon Sinuplasty. For a FREE physician referral to an ENT who performs the BSP, call 1-866-525-LPMC (5762).
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