When sinusitis doesn’t resolve with medication, sinus surgery is often the next step. There are several procedures that can remove any obstructions and enlarge the sinus openings. The goal of these procedures is to improve both airflow into the sinuses and drainage of fluids out of the sinuses.
As a minimally invasive procedure with a low risk of complications, sinus surgery may be a good option for patients whose symptoms do not respond to medication. There are several sinus procedures performed by our specialists at Puget Sound Ear Nose and Throat that can relieve a variety of symptoms.
When Do You Need Sinus Surgery?
Your doctor will help you decide if sinus surgery is the right option for you. You may benefit from one of these procedures if:
- You have chronic sinusitis, meaning your symptoms have lasted 12 weeks or longer and does not respond to medication.
- You have nasal polyps, or noncancerous growths lining your nose or sinuses.
- Sinusitis has caused other health problems like pneumonia, worsening asthma, eye infections or meningitis.
What Sinus Surgery Options Are Available?
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
This procedure uses an endoscope to visualize the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses. Specialized instruments are then used to remove tissue to widen those pathways.
Propel Sinus Implants
A dissolvable implant is inserted into the sinus openings and delivers an anti-inflammatory steroid.
Balloon Sinuplasty
A balloon catheter is gently inflated in the sinuses with the goal of expanding them without removing tissue.
Image-Guided Sinus Surgery
Used for complex sinus passages, your surgeon uses a low-dose radiation 3D CT scan mapping system with computer chips embedded in their instruments using infrared signals. This allows the surgeon to accurately link your anatomy with the scan to guide those instruments safely and accurately through the area.
Call Puget Sound ENT for more information or to schedule an appointment.