Balloon Sinuplasty

ABSTRACT

The basic principles of surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis are ventilation of the sinus ostia and conservation of the sinonasal mucosa. Since its introduction in 2006, balloon sinuplasty has been considered controversial by rhinologists. Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. However, some criticism has originated from the familiarity and preference many sinus surgeons have for conventional sinus surgery. Independent of this controversy, the current evidence supports the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of balloon sinuplasty. Furthermore, there has been increased interest in this procedure among physicians as well as patients. The objective of this review is to present and discuss the surgical technique, treatment outcomes and controversy associated with balloon sinuplasty.