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Sinuplasty Providing Relief To Allergy Sufferers

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Jun 24, 2009 1:55 pm US/Mountain

Sinuplasty Providing Relief To Allergy Sufferers

NEW YORK (CBS) ― Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the passages that drain the sinuses around the nose and eyes. Sufferers often have to take pain medications on a regular basis and end up on multiple courses of antibiotics.

Now, a less-invasive surgical procedure is growing in popularity, and helping sinus sufferers breathe easier, CBS station WCBS-TV reported.

"I couldn't go outside for three, four days. I had to stay inside. I couldn't see the light," said patient Myriam Counter.

Her allergies were leading to chronic sinusitis. Counter suffered severe headaches, felt like she couldn't breathe and was tired all the time.

"I tried different kind of allergy pills but nothing helped and for my headache I took Advil, Tylenol but nothing helped," she said.

Finally, Counter knew it was time for a surgery, but instead of traditional sinus surgery, she opted for a procedure called balloon sinuplasty.

It also opens up the sinuses to prevent infection, but is less invasive.

"This is the device we'll use to dilate patient sinuses," said otolaryngologist Dr. Ford Albritton.

Balloon sinuplasty uses a small catheter and balloon to quickly open and expand blocked sinuses. The balloon actually causes tiny bone fractures.

"The good news is the fracture actually helps us. It takes a narrow opening and will increase it and the bone will heal where you fracture it, therefore it will stay dilated and stay open," Albritton said.

The procedure is done without removing tissue, meaning a faster recovery and less pain.

"Patients should notice results anywhere from immediately to 14 days after," Albritton said.

"I don't have no more pain, no more headaches," Counter said.

Counter can now enjoy her rose garden without worrying about her sinuses.

"For me, it worked, so I think it's a good idea to have it," Counter said.

(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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