Balloon dilation technology: let the truth be told.
Balloon dilation technology (BDT), also known as balloon sinuplasty, has been in clinical use since September, 2005. Prior to BDT, surgeons performed a procedure called FESS, or functional endoscopic sinus surgery, for patients with chronic sinusitis. As is true with any new technology or procedure in medicine, a debate often ensues between early adopters and mainstream practitioners. Over the past 7 years, much has been discussed, debated, and learned about BDT. What follows is a review of the origins of the BDT: the theory, technology, indications and applications; and a review of the pertinent outcomes literature. Independent of how one feels about BDT, the evidence strongly supports its safety, efficacy, and growing popularity among patients and physicians alike.
St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, 736 Cambridge Street, SMC 8th Floor, Brighton, MA 02135, USA. Peter.catalano@steward.org
Peter J
PJ
Catalano
D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010256:Paranasal Sinuses; D012852:Sinusitis / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome