A new non-surgical technique to treat acute or chronic sinusitis has been introduced at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH). In the technique known as balloon sinuplasty, a balloon is inflated in the affected nasal area thereby clearing the blockage. As compared to other treatments this method is cost-effective and permanent. 

Sinusitis is an inflamation of the sinus lining caused by microbial infections like bacteria and viruses. This infection usually starts when the sinus openings are blocked and the normal mucus drainage does not occur. An acute infection following common cold happens at least once in the lifetime. However, if the infection is not treated properly it may then persist as chronic sinusitis.  

Dr B K Rao, Chairman, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital said: "The advantage of this procedure is that it involves faster recovery time and less post-procedure discomfort. This hospital has already conducted six successful surgeries in this regard, since March this year."

In balloon sinuplasty, a wire catheter is introduced through the nostril and guided to the blockage. The catheter has a balloon in the front. Once the blockage site is reached, the balloon is inflated for a short duration. And once the blockage is cleared, it is deflated and the catheter is pulled out.