What are the treatment options for chronic sinus problems?

For patients who continue to have chronic sinusitis (infection within the sinus cavities) as demonstrated on CT scan, despite 4-5 weeks of maximum medical therapy, surgical options can be considered.  

These surgical options include endoscopic sinus surgery or balloon sinuplasty.  

• With endoscopic sinus surgery, instruments inserted through the nose, are used to remove the pieces of tissue or bone that are blocking the sinus openings preventing them to drain properly.  

• With balloon sinuplasty—it is much like an angioplasty for the heart.  A catheter is inserted into the nose and guided into the affected sinus opening.  A balloon is then inflated which expands the sinus opening allowing it to drain properly.  

With each of these options, the sinuses are then flushed out to clear them of the infectious secretions.  A patient’s history and CT scan results determine which type of procedure they would be candidates for.  Endoscopic sinus surgery is only done in the surgical setting under anesthesia, while balloon sinuplasty can be done either in a surgical setting under anesthesia OR under local anesthesia in the office setting.  A patient’s insurance carrier also plays a role in determining which procedure will be covered.

Call to schedule a consultation 218-454-8888.

Have a great day!

Kurtis Waters MD