POST OP INSTRUCTIONS: BALLOON SINUPLASTY

The Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology: Novel, Endoscopic, Catheter-Based Devices
This technology utilizes a small, flexible, sinus balloon catheter that is placed into the nose to reach the sinuses. The sinus balloon catheter is gradually inflated to gently restructure the previously blocked nasal passage, maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining and restoring normal sinus drainage and function. There is minimal bleeding, and many patients have been able to return to normal activities within 24 hours. Clinical research has indicated that the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system is a safe and effective tool in dilating blocked sinuses.

Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology is used by qualified Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) physicians and involves the use of tiny balloons to open blocked sinuses similar to how angioplasty uses balloons to open blocked coronary arteries.

The diagram below shows an inflamed left frontal sinus.

In order to improve symptoms of chronic sinusitis, an ENT physician will use Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices to open the blockage that is preventing sinus drainage.

The following picture summarizes the steps associated with using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology:

Balloon Sinuplasty™ Benefits
The benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology for treating chronic sinusitis symptoms include:

• Safe and Effective
  While use of any surgical instrument involves some risk, clinical research has indicated the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system to be safe and effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis.
• Minimally Invasive
  The technology uses small, soft, flexible devices that enter entirely through the nostrils. These devices gently open blocked sinus openings, and in many cases, without tissue or bone removal.
• Reduced Bleeding
  Because in many instances no tissue or bone is removed when using this technology, there may be reduced bleeding associated with the procedure.
• Improved Recovery Time
  While recovery time varies with each patient, many people can return to normal activities within 24 hours.
• Does Not Limit Treatment Options
  This technology is an endoscopic tool and may be used with other medical therapies or sinus surgery techniques. It does not limit future treatment options if you have progressive disease.

As with use of any surgical instrument, there are risks, and results may vary from patient to patient. Talk with your doctor about your specific condition to find out if the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system is right for you.

Is Balloon Sinuplasty™ right for you?
Balloon Sinuplasty™ technology allows for a minimally invasive approach to treating chronic sinusitis symptoms that is clinically proven to be safe and effective.

Please answer a few questions below to see if this technology may be the right choice for you. If you appear to be a candidate, we will help you to locate a doctor in your area who is qualified to use the Balloon Sinuplasty™ system.

Do you experience any of the following symptoms?

• Facial pain
• Facial pressure
• Recurrent sinus infections
• Sinus headaches
• None of the above

Has a doctor prescribed medication for you to address your sinus condition(s)?

In the past year, how many weeks have you taken medication for your sinus condition?

• More than 12 weeks
• 9 - 12 weeks
• 6 - 8 weeks
• 4 - 5 weeks
• Less than 4 weeks
• Does not apply

Has your doctor referred you to an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist?