Practical techniques in office-based balloon sinus dilation

Balloon dilation instruments allow surgeons to restore sinus drainage pathways in properly selected patients with chronic rhinosinusitis using minimally invasive methods. For patients who are unable or reluctant to undergo surgery in an operating room, balloon dilation in the physician׳s office offers another option. Patient benefits of office-based treatment include no fasting period, convenient scheduling, avoidance of general anesthesia, rapid return to normal activities, and potentially lower out-of-pocket costs. For physicians and staff, office-based treatment offers the opportunity to provide safe, effective, and efficient care while improving patient comfort and convenience. The objective of this article is to provide current, practical information to surgeons who are beginning or enhancing their use of office-based transnasal balloon sinus dilation.