Fall and spring are often thought of as the seasons for sinus problems but, thanks to factors like poor ventilation and cold, dry weather, winter can be just as miserable for those suffering from sinus problems.
Fortunately, relief is available. Although treatment options for chronic sinusitis range from antibiotics and nasal sprays to surgery, a new FDA-approved dissolvable sinus implant is offering quick, non-surgical relief for sinusitis, regardless of severity.
“The PROPEL sinus implant offers the controlled delivery of steroids right to the sinus tissue. It’s much more precise and requires less maintenance than other treatments, and offers a significant benefit to those with chronic sinus infections or nasal polyps,” explains Laurence Cramer, DO, otolaryngologist at Bryn Mawr Hospital, who has used the implant as a treatment option for patients.
How it works
The implant is a small, condensed spring which, when placed into the nose, expands to a patient’s anatomy and props open the sinus. In the 30 days following the placement, this implant delivers a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory properties to the sinus lining. Over the course of this 30-day period, the implant will dissolve, while its benefits continue.
Throughout the process, from implantation to the point when it dissolves, patients will not feel the implant.
“For sinus sufferers who have not yet had surgery, this can offer them long-term relief from their symptoms. For those who have had sinus surgery in the past, it not only relieves symptoms, it also can prevent scarring and inflammation,” says Dr. Cramer.
Though the implant is a safe treatment options for most patients, talk to your physician about whether or not it is right for you. If not, there are still many treatment options available for sinusitis or periodic sinus infections.
Struggling to cope with the symptoms of sinusitis? Make an appointment with your physician to discuss your treatment options. The otolaryngologists at Bryn Mawr Hospital provide services for all phases of ear, nose and throat care, as well as head and neck surgery. To schedule an appointment with a specialist at Main Line Health, call 1.866.CALL.MLH (1.866.225.5654) or use our secure online appointment request form.