New Advances in Sinus Surgery & Snoring

More than 30 million Americans suffer from sinus problems. Inflammation of the sinuses, or sinusitis, can be caused by allergies, smoke, pollution, colds, or a deviated septum. Symptoms include pain, pressure, congestion, headaches, and post-nasal drips. Nasal sprays and decongestants can usually open the blocked sinus, but for chronic recurrent symptoms surgical drainage may be necessary for relief.

Endoscopic sinus surgery enables specialty trained ear, nose, and throat surgeons to open blocked sinuses using small nasal telescopes. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. With this new technology, surgery can be confined to the diseased areas while leaving normal tissue behind. This reduces recovery time, minimizes discomfort, and lowers costs. The results of endoscopic sinus surgery have shown to be overwhelmingly successful. Patients say they are able to sleep better, breath more easily, and feel more alert. And they don't find themselves taking antibiotics continuously to control chronic sinus infections that never seem to go away. If you suffer from sinus blockage, help may be on the way.

New advances have also been made in the treatment of snoring. The procedure, Radiofrequency-Assisted Uvula Palatoplasty (RAUP), utilizes radiofrequency waves to reshape the back of the throat. By removing and reshaping the uvula and soft palate, the obstruction that causes snoring is eliminated. RAUP is done in an office-setting under local anesthesia and takes 15-20 minutes. One to four treatments are usually necessary, each spaced four weeks apart. Prior to RAUP, surgical correction of snoring required general anesthesia in the hospital at tremendously increased costs. By using radiofrequency waves, there is minimal bleeding and less pain and swelling. Patients can even resume normal activity after each session. If your sleeping partner has moved to the living room sofa to get some sleep, this new procedure may cure both your snoring and possibly your relationship.

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