Relief from chronic sinus problems is focus of free seminar

A free seminar offering guidance to people living with persistent sinus pain and pressure is planned at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012.

The one-hour presentation will be given in the Oaklawn Hospital boardroom, in the lower level of the Wright Medical Building at 215 E. Mansion St., Marshall. Refreshments will be provided.

The seminar will be conducted by Michael Sterrett, M.D., and Martin Goins, M.D., both with Marshall-based South Central Ear, Nose & Throat Associates P.C.

To register for the seminar, call (269) 789-0015, ext. 825.

In part, the presentation will examine use of a trademarked technique that for many patients provides relief from chronic sinusitis. The technique, called Balloon Sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure offering faster recovery times and excellent symptom relief for patients of all ages. The technique is best applied only to specific types of sinus issues.

Oaklawn Hospital was the first hospital in southern Michigan to purchase a state-of-the-art surgical scope known as “Cyclops,” used by surgeons in performing Balloon Sinuplasty.

Using the instrument, a balloon catheter is inserted through the tiny scope into blocked sinuses. The balloons then are inflated to enlarge the openings, allowing the cavities to drain better.

Such gentle restructuring of the cavity openings is less invasive than traditional sinus surgery that requires the cutting away of bone or tissue. As a result, patients recover more quickly.

“This innovative scope gives us every view imaginable of the sinus anatomy,” Sterrett said. “Prior to having the Cyclops, we might have to insert three or four different scopes to get all the different views that this one instrument provides. It’s much simpler to handle, provides us better images and can significantly shorten the time of the procedure.”

The offices of South Central Ear, Nose & Throat are in Suite 2D of the Wright Medical Building, and may be contacted at (269) 789-0015.