When new procedures emerge to help people
with chronic health issues, it is always exciting. For people who have lived
for years with chronic sinus issues, that new procedure is balloon
sinuplasty.
This procedure can be used to help
promote sinus drainage, which offers relief. It uses a balloon and catheter,
which is a familiar tool in the treatment of cardiac issues. Under a local anesthetic,
the catheter is inserted into the sinuses from underneath the lip. The balloon
is inflated, displacing the bones that are impeding healthy drainage of the
sinuses.
This procedure can be performed in doctor’s
office, which cuts the balloon sinuplasty
cost. It makes this procedure available to more patients, which is an
exciting possibility.
This procedure can be augmented by
new PROPEL technology. PROPEL is a dissolvable stent used to hold the nasal
passages open after surgery. It is created from an innovative material that
dissolves over time while also releasing anti-inflammatory medication to assist
in the healing process.
In clinical trials, PROPEL has been
shown safe and is the only sinus surgery product proven with level 1-A evidence
as to its effectiveness and safety. It reduces scarring, inflammation, and
polyps while also lowering the need for oral steroid medication or further
surgery.
