In-Office Balloon Septoplasty Procedure
In-Office Balloon Septoplasty in Boulder, CO
Many people experience unpleasant symptoms that accompany the onset of a cold: muffled hearing, ear pain, increased pressure, and tinnitus. These symptoms typically disappear on their own once the cold has run its course. However, for 5% of the adult population these symptoms never go away, and this condition is known as chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).
Boulder Valley Ear, Nose & Throat is pleased to announce treatment for ETD with balloon septoplasty. Patients no longer have to endure ear tube surgery, but can find relief with our non-invasive, in-office procedure.
What is Chronic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)?
The Euschachian tubes run from the back of the nose to the middle of the ear, and play a key role in the body providing proper ventilation, drainage, and protection. The timing of the opening and closing of these tubes is usually taken for granted, but if something causes long-lasting interference, like inflammation, chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction can occur.
With chronic ETD, patients often complain of fullness of the ear, uncomfortable pressure, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and pain. If left untreated, this condition can lead to permanent damage of the ear drum or middle ear.
How was ETD Treated in the Past?
For decades, providers have recommended surgery to insert plastic cylinders known as ear tubes to help those with ETD. Unfortunately, this procedure required frequent replacement as the tubes could fall out or cause other problems with long-term use.
Boulder Valley ENT is thrilled to offer an advanced solution that combats this type of ear pain and pressure: in-office balloon septoplasty.
How In-Office Balloon Septoplasty Works
In-office balloon septoplasty is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in a short amount of time right in our office. Our team will start the procedure by providing local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. A catheter is then inserted into your sinuses with a small balloon and moved along the nasal passageway until it reaches the Eustachian tube opening. We will then slowly inflate the balloon, allowing for expansion. This helps to build up the sinus passage wall and encourage drainage. A saline solution is then used to clean the area and the instruments are removed.
Patients may experience some initial discomfort, as with any procedure, but usually resume their normal activities within 48 hours. Follow-up appointments may be encouraged to ensure proper healing.
Do I Need In-Office Balloon Septoplasty?
Those with chronic conditions of ETD or recurrent ear infections are prime candidates for in-office balloon septoplasty, especially patients who are not finding relief from medications or over-the-counter drugs.
Our doctors can also determine if this is the right procedure for you by ruling out other conditions like sinus infections or allergic responses. Those with anatomical conditions, which could prevent the balloon from moving, may need to explore other options.
Benefits of In-Office Balloon Septoplasty
Studies have shown that in-office balloon septoplasty has a 93% success rate with patients experiencing significant sinus improvement. Overall benefits include the following:
- Helps Address Structural Issues – Balloon dilation helps to reshape the nasal septum by remodeling the tissues.
- Opens the Eustachian Tubes Longer – As compared with ear tubes, balloon septoplasty keeps tubes open for longer periods of time.
- Quick and Convenient – The procedure takes less than a half an hour and can be performed in our office setting, keeping those with busy schedules from having to take additional time off.
- Safe – This minimally invasive procedure does not require any incisions.
- Short Recovery Time – Patients find they can resume normal activities within two days.
Experience Long-Lasting Relief with In-Office Balloon Septoplasty in Boulder
Don’t let ETD keep you down. Schedule an appointment at Boulder Valley Ear, Nose & Throat to discuss your options and get you back on track to feeling your best. Find out more about this simple procedure and how it can provide long-lasting relief. Call today at 303-443-2771.
