Newswise — In response to increasing public and media interest in sinus balloon catheterization (commonly referred to as Balloon Sinuplastyâ„¢), the American Academy of Otolaryngology " Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) has issued their first position statement on the procedure.
Sinus balloon catheterization is a surgical technique for the treatment of sinusitis, during which a wire-guided balloon catheter is inserted into the paranasal sinus and inflated in order to dilate the targeted ostium. The board-approved policy declares that the evidence regarding the safety of sinus balloon catheterization has been supportive, and that balloon catheterization is a promising technique for the treatment of selected cases of rhinosinusitis. These include those without polyposis involving the frontal, sphenoid or maxillary sinuses either in conjunction with or in place of conventional instrumentation.
The Academy, while recognizing the value and potential of the technology employed during the procedure, cautions that inflammatory disease of the ethmoid sinuses still require the use of conventional instrumentation when surgery is the recommended course of action. Furthermore, the Academy will continue to monitor pending studies on the use, efficacy, and long-term results of balloon catheter dilation.
About the AAO-HNSThe American Academy of Otolaryngology " Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's mission: "Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care."
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