New Treatment for Sinusitis

A new treatment for sinusitis, called Balloon Sinuplasty, was unveiled at the annual meeting of the American Rhinologic Society in Los Angeles (CA, USA) in September 2005.

Conventional sinus surgery involves bone and tissue removal. In the new procedure, a small flexible balloon is threaded through the sinus passageways, gently dilating the openings of the sinuses and allowing for immediate drainage. A pilot study of 10 patients showed the procedure successfully dilated the ostium in all patients with no complications or adverse effects. The comparison of pre- and post-computed tomography (CT) scans, multi-angled endoscopic views, and gross examination confirmed the safety of the technique. A new study is ongoing.

"This technology provides a novel treatment option for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis,” said Dr. William Bolger, MD, FACS, a recognized expert in sinus surgery who presented the new treatment. "Over the years we have realized that preserving the mucosa, the layer of tissue covering the sinuses, is very important for good long-term results.”

After placing a small guiding catheter into the nose under endoscopic vision, a small guidewire is introduced into the sinus targeted for therapy. Once the sinus is accessed, a proprietary balloon device called Relieva is introduced into the swollen sinus passageway under x-ray guidance. The Relieva sinus balloon catheter is then dilated, gently restructuring and widening the walls of the passageway, maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining and allowing for immediate drainage of trapped secretions.

Relieva was developed by Acclarent, Inc. (Menlo Park, CA, USA), a developer of medical devices for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists.





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