Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center - (Page 50)

Clea r Pa ss a g e Clear Passage Minimally invasive sinus surgery permanently relieves pain and pressure Cindy’s TreaTmenT: Balloon Sinuplasty Balloon sinuplasty technology is designed to open blocked sinuses without painful tissue or bone removal, using a small, flexible balloon catheter that is passed through the nostril and into the blocked sinus passageway. When the balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and opens the passageway, restoring normal sinus drainage and function. Created by a cardiologist who had chronic sinusitis, balloon sinuplasty is similar in concept to balloon angioplasty. In many cases it can be done without removing tissue or bone, leading to less post-procedure discomfort. The latest innovation to this technology allows the surgeon to place antibiotics directly into the sinus cavity, too, if needed. 50 Fa l l 2 013 F Cindy Zebrasky or people in Georgia who have seasonal allergies, it’s an annual rite of passage: blocked sinuses, loss of sense of smell, recurring headache and a feeling of pressure on the face. Formerly, these rhinosinusitis sufferers were limited to two treatment options: medical therapy, such as nasal sprays, and nonendoscopic “conventional” sinus surgery. At Gwinnett Medical Center, balloon sinuplasty and endoscopic sinus surgery have been revolutionary for people who need sinus surgery. Both are minimally invasive, which means less pain, a shorter recovery and better long-term results. For thousands of people, these procedures relieve headaches, pressure and nasal discharge, returning them to new lives in as little as 24 hours. ReneWed eneRgy WITh CleaR SInuSeS A year and a half of sinus infections was enough. Cindy Zebrasky felt foggy-brained, couldn’t breathe well and never seemed to have energy to see friends after work. “Cindy’s sinuses weren’t draining well,” says Robert Gadlage, MD, the otolaryngologist who performed Zebrasky’s surgery, “so I recommended balloon sinuplasty as a less-invasive way to help clear them.” Dr. Gadlage also used other techniques during the surgery, as is often the case, to improve breathing permanently. “At the Outpatient Center at Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth,” Zebrasky says, “the whole experience went very smoothly. The anesthesiologist, in particular, was very kind. She answered all my questions and alleviated my worries about anesthesia.” About two days after surgery, Zebrasky started feeling better.

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center
Contents
Phil’s Feature
Kind and Generous
How Can We Help?
Step It Up
Your Mightiest Muscle
Well, Well, Well
Are You Doing More Harm Than Good?
Is Your Shut-Eye Serving You Well?
Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge
Anatomy of an ER Visit
Next-Gen Surgery
Attack from Within
Virtual Health
PrimeTime Health
Clear Passage
New Life with New Knees
Out of the White Coat
Transforming Healthcare

Vim & Vigor - Fall 2013 - Gwinnett Medical Center