Balloon sinuplasty is a procedure designed to treat sinusitis in people of all ages. This FDA-approved procedure has been implemented safely since 2005 to offer relief to individuals suffering from blocked sinuses, giving them a new lease on life and the chance to breathe easily once again.
This minimally invasive operation is a good option for anyone who has not responded well to medications. It is also a promising option for those who have tried other treatments or procedures, but who still continue to deal with blocked sinuses.
Amazingly, this treatment has also proven to be safe and beneficial for children.
If your child needs relief, you may want to consider balloon sinuplasty as a treatment option. Our certified McAllen physician assistant Jonathan Lerma and his trusted team of sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group are happy to help let parents learn more about balloon sinuplasty for your kids.
Why Balloon Sinuplasty is a Good Option for Children
Many children do not react well to antibiotics prescribed for their allergy or sinus issues. This is where balloon sinuplasty can help. Today’s medical professionals look at balloon sinuplasty as a practical method for children over more invasive procedures. Benefits include:
- The treatment is safe.
- It has been shown to relieve the symptoms of chronic sinusitis.
- Balloon sinuplasty can also be effective in alleviating nasal breathing difficulties that are usually worsened by sinusitis.
Balloon sinuplasty can be done in our office, using a local anesthetic, and has numerous advantages over traditional sinus surgery including:
- Reduced pain
- Quicker recovery times
- Bone and tissues remain intact
- Minimal bleeding
Tips to Prepare Your Child for Balloon Sinuplasty
Naturally, you and your child may feel a bit anxious prior to undergoing the procedure. Thankfully, we have a few tips to help ease the situation for both you and your child.
- Communicate: One of the most important things to do is to communicate openly and honestly with your child about the upcoming procedure. Make sure they understand why this treatment is necessary and how it will help to relieve their discomfort. Your child should understand the procedure is non-invasive, meaning no incisions (or cuts) will be made. Note that a small balloon catheter will be inserted into the nasal passages. Once inserted into the nostril, the balloon opens up the blockages, improving drainage and reducing discomfort. A small amount of saline is then sprayed into the sinuses to flush away mucus and bacteria.
- Reassurance is key: Remember to reassure your child that they should not experience any pain during or after the procedure, but a light anesthetic is recommended for children. It is imperative for your child to stay still and calm while the catheter is inserted. This can be quite a challenge for younger children, but it is a safer, less stressful option when compared to traditional sinus surgery.
- Halt medication use: During the initial consultation, you will be asked if your child is taking any medications. These medications should be stopped before agreeing to any treatment for their sinus symptoms. Stop the use of pain relievers and sinus medications the day before your child’s procedure. Avoid using any herbal supplements, too.
- Help soothe their discomfort: If your child is experiencing sinus discomfort the day before their sinuplasty procedure, consider placing a warm compress over their face for a few minutes to reduce pressure and inflammation.
Tips for Recovery
In the vast majority of cases, patients can go home right after the procedure. To help ease any discomfort they may feel after the procedure, consider taking the following steps:
- Give your kiddo a treat for being brave and calm throughout the treatment.
- After flushing the sinuses and removing the balloon catheter, your child should be able to breathe more comfortably. However, they may feel some slight pressure and discomfort following the procedure.
- Let them rest, with their head elevated. This will ease any pressure while keeping their sinuses open.
- Do not allow your child to blow their nose for 12 to 24 hours after the treatment since this could cause stress inside the sinus passageways. If you notice any blood in the nasal opening, you can contact our office.
You’ll be Glatz you Chose Balloon Sinuplasty for your Child
With the Glatz Group, you can rest at ease knowing your child is in good hands and on their way to sinus relief.
If you are concerned about the safety of you and your child from COVID-19, we want to assure you that precautions are taken every day at our office. We are currently using telemedicine to address the needs of our patients without meeting face-to-face.
Online consultations or phone calls are also accepted.