Novel Technology in Treating Chronic Sinus Infections Now Offered by The Oregon Clinic

The Oregon Clinic, Ear, Nose and Throat division offers clinically proven, minimally invasive technology for treating Sinusitis afflicting 37 million Americans.

The Oregon Clinic, Ear, Nose and Throat division in Portland, Oregon now offers a clinically proven, minimally invasive technology for treating chronic sinus inflammation. The Balloon Sinuplasty™ system by Acclarent™ uses a small catheter and balloon to quickly open and expand blocked sinuses.

Sinusitis is one of the most common chronic health problems in the U.S., afflicting 37 million Americans each year. Patients suffer headaches, congestion, fatigue and other symptoms. This condition significantly impacts an individual’s physical, functional, and emotional quality of life.[1]

Until recently, sinusitis patients were limited to two treatment options:  medical therapy such as antibiotics and topical nasal steroids, or conventional sinus surgery such as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS). Medical therapy can help alleviate symptoms for 75-80% of patients but is inadequate for the rest. For them, sinus surgery is often the best option. However, FESS is a conventional surgery that requires bone and tissue removal in order to open up blocked sinus passageways. In lieu of a desired treatment, more than 600,000 patients elect to live with painful sinus conditions.[2]

Doctors with The Oregon Clinic can perform endoscopic sinus surgery with the Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology. This technology offers new hope in relief of chronic sinusitis. A small, flexible balloon catheter is placed through a nostril into the blocked sinus passageway. The balloon is then inflated to gently restructure and open the sinus passageway, restoring normal sinus drainage and function.

“Not all patients meet the medical criteria for this surgery” said Dr. Andrew Pedersen, “The Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices are a true advance in sinus care because in many cases it can be done without removing any tissue or bone. What this will mean to our patients is that they will experience a faster recovery time and less post-procedure discomfort. In fact, many patients can return to normal activities within 24 hours and have had significant improvement in their symptoms.”

Sinusitis patients who are considering their options can learn more about the Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology by contacting The Oregon Clinic, ENT division at 503.488.2400 or 503.488.2600 or by visiting www.balloonsinuplasty.com.