Who Is the Best Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty or a Sinus Balloon?

What Makes Someone an Ideal Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?

Many patients with chronic sinus problems are good candidates for balloon sinuplasty. When considering functional endoscopic sinus surgery vs balloon sinuplasty, the latter is especially well-suited for individuals who have failed medical therapy but want to avoid the more invasive nature of traditional sinus surgery.

Long-term success rates are comparable to traditional surgery, with most patients experiencing lasting improvement.

When Traditional Surgery May Be Needed

Patients with extensive nasal polyps may require traditional sinus surgery to physically remove the obstructing tissue. In cases with minimal polyps, limited removal may sometimes be performed in the office at the same time as balloon sinuplasty.

Patients who are not good candidates for general anesthesia often benefit from balloon sinuplasty because it avoids the operating room.

What Symptoms or Conditions Indicate that Balloon Sinuplasty may be Beneficial?

The Role of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum affects the nasal airway rather than the sinuses themselves. Mild deviations can often be corrected in the office during balloon sinuplasty. More severe deviations may need to be addressed separately to allow proper access to the sinuses.

Can Balloon Sinuplasty be Combined with Other Procedures, such as Turbinate Reduction or Septoplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty can often be combined with turbinate reduction or minor septal correction, allowing multiple issues to be addressed during a single visit when appropriate.