Balloon Sinuplasty in Austin, TX
Our office in Austin, Texas played a key role in developing the original prototype for the sinus balloon used in Balloon Sinuplasty. We also contributed to the clinical study that led to the FDA approval of this innovative therapy. Additionally, we were among the first to introduce IV sedation in the office setting, offering our patients a higher level of comfort during procedures.
As a recognized teaching facility, we have hosted physicians from across the country and have lectured nationally on the use of this technology. We also pioneered techniques that integrate comprehensive structural corrections into Balloon Sinuplasty, addressing issues such as septal deviation, nasal polyps, turbinate swelling, and fungal sinus infections ENT physicians have traveled from all over the country to learn how to incorporate our techniques.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses. At optimal health, your sinus cavities are normally filled with air. Secondary to allergies, bacterial infection, or anatomical issues such as a deviated septum, the natural sinus outflow tracts can become obstructed. The sinuses will become backed up with pressure and fluid and will produce many symptoms such as the following:
- Facial pressure
- Headache
- Congestion
- Fever
- “Brain fog”
- Fatigue,
- Migraines
- Snoring
- Cough.
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What is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a non-surgical procedure where a tiny sinus balloon is inserted into the natural sinus outflow tracts. This balloon is then inflated to dilate this area. The balloon is then removed, and the outflow tract is more capable of naturally draining. This procedure helps eliminate recurring sinus infections, chronic sinus infections, sinus headache, and reduces congestion and snoring.
At Sinus and Snoring Specialists, we perform this procedure with the comfort and safety of IV sedation provided by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
Click here to view more videos about Sinus and Nasal Treatments.
Balloon Sinuplasty Patient Testimonial
I’ve had sinus problems for the past 20 years ! Seen many Doctors with no real success. Dr. Slaughter and his staff are Professional, Courteous and Caring. My experience has been short, but from the moment you walk in, you are greeted and made to feel most welcome. No long waiting time. You can definitely tell he loves what he does and that he cares about the well being of his patients. If you have Sinus (E.N.T.) problem, this is the place to get a solution to your problems. Oh yeah, I have had 4 Balloon Sinuplasty from previous DOCTORS that took over 1 !/2 hours to complete with some pain and hangovers. Dr. Slaughter completed my Balloon Sinuplasty, Cyclone Lavage with the State of the Art Technology ( Fiagon 3DStereotatic Image Guidance) in 15 minutes PAIN FREE !!! It’s a Blessing to have Dr. Slaughter in Austin, Texas.” – John C. – August 2018
Who Is a Good Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?
The ideal candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty is those who suffer from sinus complaints such as:
- Congestion
- Nasal blockage
- Postnasal drip
- Sinus pressure and headache
- Allergies
- Recurring sinus infections
- Chronic sinus infection
- Nasal polyps
- Snoring
- Sleep Apnea
Click here to view more videos about Sinus and Nasal Treatments.
What are the Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty?
Unlike traditional sinus surgery, balloon sinuplasty does not require any incisions, bone or tissue removal, or sutures. There are many benefits to choosing balloon sinuplasty over traditional surgery. These benefits include:
- No damage to surrounding tissue
- Short recovery time
- Reduced bleeding
- Absence of incisions or sutures
- Reduced risk of serious complications
Balloon sinuplasty can even be used in cases of severe sinusitis, cases with polyps, and cases of previous failed surgery. In fact, balloon sinuplasty should always be the first choice over surgical therapy.
The Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
Our physicians perform Balloon Sinuplasty in our state-of-the-art office procedure room, using both IV sedation and local anesthesia for maximum comfort. The procedure begins with the insertion of a small sinus balloon, guided by a tiny telescope, into the blocked natural outflow tracts of the sinus cavities. Prior to inflating the balloon, we use a 3D computer-assisted program to ensure precise placement. Once positioned correctly, the balloon is inflated to dilate the blocked passages, allowing the sinuses to drain normally and relieving both symptoms and infection. The balloon is then removed, leaving no foreign material behind.
Our office is one of the few sinus experts to offer Fiogan 3D Computer-Assisted Navigation for Balloon Sinuplasty, a technology typically available only in large hospitals. This advanced system uses CT-guided electromagnetic field technology to provide our physicians with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring both safety and optimal outcomes for our patients.
Can Children Get Balloon Sinuplasty?
Our physicians are also skilled in performing balloon sinuplasty for the pediatric population. This non-surgical approach is preferred over traditional surgery to help preserve and protect the developing nasal anatomy. Depending on the child’s age and other factors, the procedure may be done at a surgery center rather than in the office. Pediatric balloon sinuplasty is an effective, non-invasive treatment for chronic sinus infections in children. If your child experiences recurring sinus infections, persistent congestion, or chronic nasal drainage, they may be a candidate for this procedure.
What Can Non-Surgical Sinuplasty Treat?
Balloon Sinuplasty offers a non-surgical therapy to open blocked sinus passageways and relieve many sinus conditions including: chronic sinusitis, acute recurring sinusitis, chronic sinus pressure, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and even migraine headache.
Balloon Sinuplasty Patient Review
“I am SO EXCITED about my results from my balloon sinuplasty and turbinate reduction, that I am writing reviews and sharing pics in every place I can! Dr. Slaughter was the THIRD ENT/Otolaryngologist I went to. I am a singer, music educator and speaker, and had been through 7 years of hell with my singing voice and my speaking was also being plagued with problems…”
-Kelly
Balloon sinuplasty recovery
The Balloon Sinuplasty procedure is quick, typically taking just minutes, and most patients return to normal activities without the need for extended recovery or pain medications. There is no packing or foreign material placed in the nose, and unlike traditional sinus surgery, there is no bruising or swelling. Most patients can return to work the very next day.
Balloon Sinuplasty Vs. traditional sinus surgery
Balloon Sinuplasty is a non-surgical procedure with a very high success rate (97.5%) in resolving sinus issues both in the short and long term. It is generally performed in our office under IV sedation, where patients may experience only a mild cold-like sensation for about a week, without the need for pain medication. Most are able to return to work the following day.
Our state-of-the-art office procedure room ensures the highest level of comfort and safety. A board-certified anesthesiologist administers IV sedation similar to what’s used during a colonoscopy. The patient remains unaware of the procedure, feels no pain, and has no memory of it afterward. Since no breathing tube is inserted, recovery is quicker, and patients avoid the usual side effects like sore throat or nausea. Most can be driven home just 15 minutes after the procedure.
In contrast, traditional sinus surgery requires general anesthesia, takes over an hour in the hospital, and is associated with greater pain, a longer recovery time, and higher risk. Surgical risks include potential injury to the nose, eyes, or brain, as well as complications from the breathing tube, like tooth injury, sore throat, nausea, and lung issues.
Costs for Balloon Sinuplasty are generally much lower since the procedure is office-based, with no hospital fees.
Read Blog Post: THE CAUSES AND TREATMENT OF EMPTY NOSE SYNDROME (ENS)
Balloon Sinuplasty Risks
The risks of Balloon Sinuplasty are extremely low as there is no surgery or wound to heal.
Sinus surgery on the other hand involves cutting through nasal and sinus tissue, carrying greater risks like severe bleeding, infection, eye and brain injury, and even leakage of brain fluid.
Balloon Sinuplasty Controversy
While Balloon Sinuplasty has gained widespread use, there’s still some disagreement among ENT specialists about the procedure, as our understanding is evolving and more studies are needed. Surgeons base their recommendations on their own experience and training.
Our physicians, with extensive experience and a thorough review of the literature, believe Balloon Sinuplasty is effective for treating various conditions, including chronic sinus infections, recurring sinus issues, sinus pressure, headaches, migraines triggered by sinus pressure, snoring, and sleep apnea. We also recognize that to achieve the best outcomes, Balloon Sinuplasty is often combined with other procedures, such as septoplasty, turbinate reduction, and polyp removal. When treating snoring or sleep apnea, ensuring the nasal airway is open and healthy is essential for success. While Balloon Sinuplasty alone may not always resolve these conditions, it creates the foundation for other treatments to be more effective.
Our physicians also understand that the sinuses are interconnected, and the best way to achieve complete sinus clearance is by dilating all six sinus outflow tracts, a concept supported by current research.
Balloon Sinuplasty is an evolving field, and opinions among ENT specialists can vary based on individual experience and philosophy. However, our extensive experience demonstrates that Balloon Sinuplasty plays a crucial role in treating many common nasal and sinus issues, with a high success rate, fewer risks compared to traditional surgery, and long-lasting results.
Schedule a consultation
If you have an interest in learning more about Balloon Sinuplasty, contact our office in Austin, TX today! Call 512.601.0303 to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified ENT Specialist, Dr. Daniel Slaughter or Dr. Ryan Salvador.
