Balloon sinuplasty opens passages without trauma
CROWN POINT Patients with sinus concerns can breathe easier at Saint Anthony Medical Center.
A team of three staff doctors offers the latest in treatment, including balloon sinuplasty, a relatively new, minimally invasive procedure that provides better-than-ever results with fewer-than-ever chances for trauma.
“Sinuplasty is another tool we have to help people address sinus problems. We’ve been doing it for a couple of years and it has proved very successful,” said Dr. Thomas Tarin, a Saint Anthony staff otolaryngologist, who, along with Dr. Dennis Han and Dr. Ryan Cmejrek, is based at Southlake Ear, Nose and Throat in Merrillville.
In the procedure, a catheter with a guide wire is placed into the sinus. The attached balloon is inflated, widening the sinus walls and clearing nasal passages, without damaging them, Tarin said.
“A camera, with a light, is attached to the guide wire. The procedure is much less traumatic than in the past. There is no bleeding or shearing. It is a wonderful way to open the sinuses,” he added.
Surgery, though, is viewed as a last resort, Tarin said.
“Sinusitis is very complicated. We try treating it with meds – sprays and antibiotics, first – for about four or six weeks. If the symptoms persist, surgery is possible,” he added. “It’s a matter of deciding which patients are right for it.”
For more information, contact Saint Anthony Medical Center at (219) 757-6301.
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