Chronic sinusitis can lead to a frustrating cycle of doctor visits, antibiotic therapy, and temporary relief until the cycle occurs all over again. If you have been diagnosed with chronic sinusitis and are not responding well to antibiotics, you may be a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty. This revolutionary treatment for blocked sinuses offers a minimally-invasive option for patients who do not need, or may not want, extensive sinus surgery.
Balloon Sinuplasty is an endoscopic, catheter-based procedure for patients suffering from sinusitis. An FDA-cleared technology, it uses a small, flexible, sinus balloon catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways, restoring normal sinus drainage. When the sinus balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and widens the walls of the passageway while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining. Patients breathe freely again, perhaps for the first time in years. With normal sinus function restored, recurrent, chronic infections are a thing of the past.
ADVENT founder, Dr. Madan N Kandula, was the first surgeon in Wisconsin to perform balloon Sinuplasty and has treated more patients with this technology than anyone else in the state. The addition of Dr. Ethan Handler, Dr. R. Nikolaus Schmidt and Dr. James Rossiter, makes balloon sinuplasty available at our Wauwatosa, Mequon and Oconomowoc offices. The vast experience of our surgeons enables them to treat even severe cases with balloon sinuplasty, and expand the range of patients that can now benefit from this low-key procedure.
The majority of balloon sinuplasties right at our offices. They numb the nasal passages with a local anesthetic, then introduce the catheter and balloon to enlarge the affected sinus cavities. Patients typically feel some pressure when the balloon is inflated, but it lasts just seconds. After the procedure patients can breathe normally through their nose because no packing is needed, though they are instructed to do saline rinses. Recovery from balloon sinuplasty is quick, and patients can return to their usual activities the next day, as they are comfortable. Patients breathe better, not only because blocked sinuses are now open, but also because balloon sinuplasty proves to be a lasting solution to their chronic sinus problems.